Sydney Swans coach John Longmire will have the chance to enhance his legacy as he prepares for his fifth grand final.
The Swans put on a masterclass in the preliminary final against Port Adelaide, winning 14.11 (95) – 8.11 (59).
Sydney led at every quarter as Port showed every sign of fatigue from their thrilling qualifying final win against Hawthorn last week.
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The Swans’ win comes after AFL great Matthew Lloyd pondered whether Longmire needs a second premiership victory to cement his status as one of the best coaches of the modern era.
Isaac Heeney celebrates Sydney’s victory. Getty
Longmire won the flag in 2012 before losses in the 2014, 2016 and 2022 deciders.
Now he’s into his fifth decider after brilliant performances across the board from all his stars.
Tom Papley and Joel Amartey both finished with three goals while Errol Gulden finished with 27 disposals, Isaac Heeney 24 and Oliver Floren had 23.
Port Adelaide were first to score through Jase Burgoyne but they could never wrestle back any momentum after that.
Sydney led 9.1 (55) – 4.6 (30) at half-time and the lead extended to 40 points at the final break.
Slowing down the tempo of the game, the Swans only scored 10 points in the final term but Port Adelaide could only put forward an extra 14 points with the result beyond doubt.
“They just put the foot on the throat of Port Adelaide really early, and they just kept it there,” David King said on Fox Footy.
“This was one of their most complete performances all season,” Leigh Montagna added.
“They are primed, they are peaking at the right time.”