A Hidden Gem in the Swans’ Roster
For all the attention Sydney has received for their pursuit of Charlie Curnow and the significant cost involved, there’s been a notable oversight. The Swans also secured another key forward during the previous summer, and this player came at a fraction of the price. This player is Malcolm Rosas jnr, who was acquired by the Swans from the Gold Coast Suns in exchange for picks 51 and 69.
This trade might not have garnered much attention initially, but Rosas jnr’s recent performance has changed that. His career-best seven-goal display has highlighted the value he brings to the team, showcasing a bargain that the Suns might be regretting now.
A Stellar Performance
Rosas jnr opened the scoring in Sunday’s 17-point victory over Melbourne at the SCG. His goal marked the start of an intense opening quarter where the lead changed hands seven times. Within a remarkable six-minute span just after the quarter began, he reclaimed the lead with his third goal, followed by two more that established a decisive advantage.
His performance was not only crucial for the game but also for the crowd of 40,673, which included actress Sydney Sweeney. She was in Australia filming a movie, and it’s safe to say she couldn’t have missed the impact Rosas jnr had on the match. His presence has provided the Swans with a dynamic element they lacked in the three years since her last visit.
Coach’s Perspective
Swans coach Dean Cox praised Rosas jnr’s contributions, stating, “The reason we got him here was to add something different to our forward line.” He emphasized that while goals aren’t the sole focus, Rosas jnr has delivered real flair and benefited the club significantly.
A Small Forward’s Impact
Rosas jnr’s ability to find space and capitalize on opportunities has been evident. His performance against Melbourne was particularly impressive, as the Demons struggled to contain him. The Swans outscored the visitors five goals to two in the second term, highlighting his effectiveness.
“I was like, ‘Oh, they can’t really do nothing about it’,” Rosas jnr said. “It’s just one of them days, I think. I just take my opportunities.”
Continuing a Legacy
Rosas jnr joined the Swans with the aim of continuing their legacy of First Nations stars. He has already made a strong start, producing more goals in a single afternoon than he did throughout the entire previous season.
A Significant Win
His performance helped the Swans return to the top of the AFL ladder. The 19.17 (131) to 17.12 (114) victory over Melbourne was a testament to the team’s strategy under Cox, although some inaccuracies in front of goal prevented them from securing a more decisive win.
A Competitive Finish
Melbourne faced early challenges when Brody Mihocek injured his hamstring while tackling Lewis Melican. Despite this setback, the Demons remained competitive, stringing together four late goals to create a tense finish. However, they couldn’t overcome the damage done earlier in the game.
Rosas jnr’s sixth goal, a clever snap from the top of the goal square, seemed to seal the victory. However, the Swans didn’t secure a comfortable win until Joel Amartey’s fourth goal in the final minute.
Coaches’ Reactions
Cox expressed disappointment with conceding 7.4 in the last quarter, while Melbourne coach Steven King was proud of his team’s resilience. “Really disappointed with the result today, but really proud of the group for fighting it out,” King said. “They could have easily gotten away from us today… I walk away really proud as a coach, knowing I’ve got a group of players that are willing to fight and scrap to the death and never give in.”
