Here are 3 things we learned from our clash with Sydney last Thursday.
Jamarra continues to grow
Seven possessions and a goal may not blow the stats sheet up but Jamarra Ugle-Hagan’s impact was profound against the Swans. The tall forward brought the ball to ground on several occasions and created a contest throughout the fixture. Ugle-Hagan kicked the first goal of the game setting the scene for a strong performance and should build as the 20-year-old plays more games.
Dunkley the midfield bull
Josh Dunkley showed exactly what he is capable of with a standout performance in the midfield on Thursday night. The 25-year-old had 31 touches, 11 tackles and six clearances to dominate in the centre square. His vigour around the contest was a highlight putting pressure on the Sydney ball users at every opportunity and finding the footy inside.
Ryan Gardner loves a role
Ryan Gardner set himself for one of the toughest assignments in footy, Buddy Franklin. The premier forward had just come off kicking his 1000th goal but Gardner found a way to curtail the threat. The rangy defender didn’t give Buddy an inch the entire game and despite the Swan kicking two goals, he was well held for the night.
