‘O’Keefe Slams Sydney’s Lacklustre Display: “Not Up to AFL Standards”‘

Sydney Swans legend Ryan O’Keefe has strongly criticised his old club after their defeat to Brisbane in Saturday’s grand final rematch, labelling their performance as “not up to AFL standard.”

In his post-match press conference, new coach Dean Cox maintained a relatively positive outlook, highlighting numerous positives from the game. However, he conceded that the Swans struggled with their execution at the SCG.

The Swans were narrowly beaten by a score of 12.14 (86) to 12.10 (82), leaving them at 0-2 early in the season. It was evident they could have clinched the match if not for careless errors with their disposals and goal attempts.

O’Keefe, who played a part in Sydney’s 2005 and 2012 premiership teams, did not hold back on ABC Radio, stating: “We need to stop making excuses for players at the start of the season.”

“They are professionals; this is their job, and those are basic mistakes. The level of performance we saw today was simply not acceptable; it doesn’t meet AFL standards.”

Sydney had a 15-point lead at quarter-time but could have extended it had Tom McCartin and Will Hayward not missed straightforward set shots, sending their attempts out on the full.

In the final quarter, with the Swans down by 10 points, Corey Warner failed to take a simple mark deep in the forward 50, ultimately fumbling the ball and missing the opportunity.

Later in that quarter, Matt Roberts attempted to play on from a kick-in, only to directly hand the ball to Brisbane’s Josh Dunkley, who promptly converted a straightforward set shot, pushing the visitors’ lead to 12 points.

There were numerous instances where Sydney players opted to take a wild shot instead of playing a more measured game.

However, the Swans showed impressive physicality at the contest, with strong performances from James Rowbottom, Isaac Heeney, and Justin McInerney.

During Cox’s post-match media conference, a reporter mentioned the slippery conditions.

“It was hot early,” Cox acknowledged. “Every time they grabbed the ball, everyone was sweating so much that it slipped through many players’ hands. In those conditions, focusing on the fundamentals is key, as Brisbane managed to maintain their composure.”

The Swans will be aiming for their first win of the season when they face Fremantle next Sunday.

“We know when we play our best football, we can match it with any team in the league, and we’ve demonstrated that against two of the top teams,” Cox said, referencing their close contests against Hawthorn and Brisbane.

“Our challenge is to sustain that level of play over a longer period. We’ve allowed ourselves to drop off at times, which has handed momentum to the opposition.”

“I’m very confident about the potential of this playing group in the near future.”

Lions forward Zac Bailey was the standout performer of the match, finishing with a game-high four goals.

Brisbane will continue their premiership defence next Sunday against the West Coast Eagles at the Gabba.