AFL listed Swans Lewis Taylor, James Bell and Ryan Clarke have combined to put on a clinic in the club’s Friday night VFL clash against the Western Bulldogs.
Sydney ran out 44-point winners despite the Dogs hitting the front early in the third quarter. Nine of the last ten goals saw them run out comprehensive winners.
A big part of the win was the trio on the footy of Taylor (38 disposals, 20 marks), Bell (31 disposals, nine tackles) and Clarke (37 disposals, eight marks).
Those three were well supported up forward by more AFL listed Swans. Ben Ronke and Joel Amartey kicked three goals each, while new recruit Peter Ladhams contributed two of his own.
Meanwhile, last year’s rookie draft pick Robbie McComb stood up in the middle for the Dogs with 36 disposals and eight clearances in a sign he could soon earn a debut.
Josh Schache responded to his AFL axing with two goals and 11 disposals playing largely up forward.
Meanwhile, in Carlton’s 42-point win over Brisbane, Jack Newnes played his second VFL game in a row to record 30 disposals and a goal in a hard-running role.
Former Bulldog Will Hayes was also very solid in the midfield and contributed with 33 disposals and six clearances, while he was joined on-ball by former top-five draft pick Paddy Dow.
Dow has been earmarked to play AFL early in the season in Michael Voss’ reign and did his hopes no harm with 33 disposals and an impressive goal in the third quarter.
A cool, calm and composed finish from Paddy. Very nice. pic.twitter.com/dwatqruN5A
— Carlton Reserves (@CarltonReserves) March 25, 2022
He's in a similar boat to first-round draftee Jesse Motlop, who had 15 disposals and two behinds on the night.
Three VFL games are scheduled for Saturday, before the final five to round out Round 1 of the league are played on Sunday.