Dean Cox knows exactly what’s coming at the SCG on Friday night, and his response was short and sharp.
“Get a step ladder.”
That was the Sydney coach’s first reaction when asked about the towering threat of Sam Darcy, the Bulldogs’ 205-cm prodigy who looms as the key to dismantling the Swans’ finals hopes in a must-win clash.
“Whether it's highest point (marking), whether it's contested, he gets them on the lead, can do multiple things around the ground as well, that's what makes him such a phenomenal talent,” Cox told AFL Media.
“We need to make sure that we've got matchups that are capable and can restrict him as much as possible, but also have a team focus.”
Amartey’s radar, Grundy’s lift and milestone moments
While all eyes will be on Darcy, Cox is backing his forward line to make an impact, including Joel Amartey, who kicked six straight behinds last week despite dominating the air.
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“Before that game, he was above 70 per cent from set shots,” Cox said. “People have days like that, it's about working on it through the week, which he's done.”
Brodie Grundy’s form has also pleased the Swans boss, with the veteran ruckman averaging 22 disposals over his last six games and sitting fourth in the AFL for hitouts to advantage.
“He's been great for us... Not only with his ruck stuff, but his follow-up, his work behind the ball. Aerially, he's improved dramatically.”
The match will also see Chad Warner celebrate game 100 and Marcus Bontempelli his 250th. But for Cox and the Swans, keeping Darcy quiet might be the milestone that matters most.