Slick Swans have Hardwick's attention JAMES DAMPNEY AND GUY HAND
April 9, 2010 - 5:14PM
AAP It has only taken two rounds for Sydney to impress observers with their rejuvenated list and more up-tempo style, with Richmond coach Damien Hardwick expecting a stern test at the SCG on Saturday night.
The new-look Swans narrowly lost an absorbing battle with premiership favourites St Kilda in round one before dismissing the Crows in Adelaide last week in an accomplished performance.
New signings Ben McGlynn and Mark Seaby have already made an impact, while Daniel Bradshaw is gradually finding his feet after an injury-interrupted pre-season and could be ready to kick a bag of goals on Saturday.
It has left Sydney short-priced favourites to dismiss the win-less Tigers and Richmond's first-year coach Hardwick has been mightily impressed by the Swans so far in 2010.
"They're a lot more attacking and they're an exciting team to watch," Hardwick said.
"Their game against Adelaide was outstanding. I think a lot of people had them out of the eight - I think they're going to be well and truly in the eight.
"It gives our guys a great challenge to play against quality opposition again."
The Tigers haven't beaten Sydney since 2005 and were on the receiving end of a 55-point drubbing last time they met in round 19 last year.
Richmond are also coming off thrashings at the hands of Carlton and the Western Bulldogs to start the season.
But Seaby graciously decided against dismissing the so-far toothless Tigers, saying the Swans were prepared for a backlash from the visitors, who will welcome back veteran Ben Cousins after a week on the sideline.
"I think we are expecting a big fight," he said.
"No team likes to start the season with two losses, let alone three or four, and I think they will be coming here red hot and will be out for a win.
"They will be a different team altogether."
http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-sport/slick-swans-have-hardwicks-attention-20100409-ryb9.html
