Last weekend they found the fitness of ADFA/RMC and some play mistakes their biggest hurdle in scoring goals.

This year is really a rebuilding and refocusing year for the Swans, with the retirement or moving on of several senior players and their replacement by relatively raw recruits who are still developing their skills and understanding of the game.

Coach Heath Russell said his players were improving each game, and the 13.10.88 to 4.6.30 loss to this extremely fit and skilled team was not reflective of the level at which the Swans played.

“The boys were in the game and showed plenty of commitment but mistakes in play cost critical possession as well as several misdirected kicks costing points,” Russell said.

“Toward the end of the game ADFA’s sustained fitness took its toll and they were able to score a succession of goals with limited resistance from the Swans.

“This week should be a lot different when we play the UC Magpies on Goodhew Park.

“Apart from the home ground advantage, UC were belted far worse than us by ADFA the previous week.

“This week’s game appears winnable for us but there is no room for complacency in our play.

“We need everyone to be playing well and to have learnt from our past errors if we are to gain the points.”

The Swans are without Andrew Mewburn with an ankle injury and Mitch Chapman with an AC joint injury, and Russell said their return was unknown.

Saturday night is also a special one for the Swans as they celebrate their Team of the Decade.

The night at their major sponsors, the Astor Hotel, starts at 6.30pm. 

Tickets are $25 a head, and will see players, committee, supporters, past players, and anyone who wants to join in can have a great night out celebrating the past decade of the Goulburn Swans’ history and achievements.