A first-quarter blitz by Sydney has set up a stunning 46-point win over Geelong at Simonds Stadium.
With suspended superstar Patrick Dangerfield looking on from the stands, the Cats were largely unable to match the fierce physical pressure applied by the Swans, who recorded a 16.11 (107) to 8.13 (61) win.
A disappointing Friday night for the home side was made worse when Joel Selwood limped off for good early in the last quarter.
The inspirational skipper suffered an ankle injury in the second term, which he appeared to hurt further in a Lance Franklin tackle in the second half.
The Swans’ performance was even more impressive given Franklin had a quiet night and managed just one goal, while Swans captain Josh Kennedy didn’t play because of a hamstring injury.
Chris Scott’s side trailed by 25 points heading into the final term. The coach will be bitterly disappointed with some costly undisciplined acts.
Dan Hannebery booted the opening major of the last quarter, but Tom Papley was gifted another shot at goal soon after when Mitch Duncan infringed.
To rub salt into the wounds, Papley missed his first shot but was placed on the goalline after a 50m penalty was awarded, his goal giving his side a 37-point lead.
John Longmire’s men set the tone early.
The Cats had won 15 of their past 16 games at their home ground going into the clash, with the Swans beating them last year.
But the visitors made themselves right at home, kicking five goals in a row to help set up a 32-point lead at the first break.
The margin stretched to 37 midway through the second term before Geelong mustered a fightback with three straight goals.
But Sydney regrouped at halftime and were able to keep the Cats at arm’s length in the third quarter before finishing strongly.
Tom Hawkins kicked three goals but the Cats’ spearhead will come under scrutiny by the match review panel for a second-quarter jumper punch on Swans defender Dane Rampe.
It was the first meeting of the sides since last year’s preliminary final, which Sydney won on the back of a similarly devastating first-quarter onslaught.
“They are a ballistic team early in quarters and early in games,” Scott said.
“Clearly I can’t sit here and say that we’ve learnt our lesson and we know what to do next time because we didn’t do it again.
“Early in the game it was a poor performance.”
The Swans have now won 11 of their past 13 games and appear destined to play finals after starting the season with six defeats in a row.
“Right across the board we had a lot of players who contributed at a good level,” Longmire said.
“There were no real absolute standouts.
“So it was a very even performance but clearly that first quarter was important.”
Roger of Sydney
Guest
Although the Swans won not that slick yet, not complaining but there is still a level above this. The Crows at home cannot wait. The umpiring was interesting, or another word disgraceful. First quarter all the swans way, second corner all the Cats way and after that was very tricky touch. Gee Selwood is a protected species, dove four times got three high tackles
Cat
Roar Guru
When you have nearly half the side with less than 50 (and most under 20) games at AFL level, these things happen. Kids make mistakes.
Col in paradise
Guest
It's the cats weakness with or without Dangermouse , Crows proved it the other week and Swans earlier in the season
Mark
Guest
I ate pies - I can't believe you are all tipping Geelong to lose at Kardinia Park. It won't happen. Keep them coming expert.
Mark
Guest
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Mark
Guest
Rohan's goal after the siren against the Bombers would had to have been replayed, Daniher moved to about 5m of him.
Sydneygirl
Guest
Good win Sydney. Hard at the contest and kicked better than some weeks. Kept pressure on mostly. Luke Parker is a star and Papley and Haywood good value, a good effort all over the ground on the whole.
Don Freo
Guest
The best satire is always serious. Thankyou.
Wayne
Guest
Um - satire or serious - either way its chuckle worthy at its best - thanks Don - I have sparred with you a few times but as I go through some mental challenges this laugh is amazing - I like the 'freo beats them at the SCG'
Mattyb
Guest
Could be another nervous wait for Geelong with MRP it regards to Hawkins again.
Pelican
Guest
It was good to see the umpire concerned in the Papley 50 metre enforce the exclusion zone. I have noticed that some umpires don't and players exploit this to apply extra pressure on the goal kicker. It surprised me when it was enforced from a shot straight in front. They only usually notice the encroachment if the kicker is on the boundary line and has no room.
Mattyb
Guest
I thing your right there Swannies. Sydney's start the the season wasn't that much of a shock as they do tend to start seasons slowly. Maybe it's a surprise it went on so long but they're certainly up and running now. I'd say the rightful premiership favourite at this stage. Adelaide also look very good at their best.
Kiama Chrii
Guest
Fierce 18 man pressure yielded the result. Cats not quick enough in their thinking or reactions when pressed. Probably Swans best this year, especially without Joey. Everyone did their job. Better kicking helps too!!
Don Freo
Guest
Be afraid! They still have to play Freo before the finals. Freo will deny them top 4. WC/Melb GF.
Swannies
Guest
Swans tuning up for another Grand Final.