Port Adelaide’s Sachi Syme says the side has taken plenty of learnings from its Round 1 clash with Fremantle, with a strong focus on returning to processes and game style ahead of Sunday’s game against North Melbourne.
Speaking to portadelaidefc.com.au, Syme reflected on the areas reviewed following the loss, highlighted the positives in the team’s response to Fremantle’s pressure, and outlined how the group is preparing for a “challenge” in Round 2.
The Power will face the Kangaroos at Arden Street on Sunday, August 24, from 12:35pm ACST.
Syme on the Round 1 loss to Fremantle
“We are disappointed about the loss. It was a home game for us, and we love playing at home. We were beaten in meters gained in the weekend, and we went into the game really focused on that, so it was disappointing to go down in that (area). Fremantle’s pressure was really good, and it’s an area of our game that we'll be working on.”
Syme on Fremantle’s pressure
“We were in the contest right till the end. With about six minutes to go, we were only down by eight points. There were a few moments late in the game that we couldn't capitalise on, and Fremantle’s pressure was strong. For most of the game we responded well, but there were times we didn’t execute the way we wanted under that pressure, and that’s where our plan broke down.”
Syme on what the side reviewed post-game
“Meters gained was the big area we lost in, and we looked at that today. But ultimately, we’re going back to our game plan and focusing on what’s ahead. We’ve got North Melbourne this week, and they’re a really strong side – they showed that last year. We’re excited about the challenge and ready to play our style.”
Syme on the Round 2 clash against North Melbourne
“It’s going to be a tough contest, but we're really excited. It’s our first away trip of the year, which is always fun for us as a group. They’re a good team and proved that by winning the flag last year. We’ll stick to our processes and hopefully play more of the footy we want to. We’re up for the challenge.”
Syme on her pre-season preparation
“I'm feeling good, I've worked alongside our strength a coach a lot through the pre-season and off-season with a focus on getting a bit stronger and getting my running going well. Ultimately, I'm just focused on how well our team's going as a whole.”
Syme on injuries to key players
“We can't control injuries – it’s part of footy. We've got a really solid group, and we’ve all worked hard across the pre-season to be fit and ready, so we’ve got girls who can step in. That hopefully opens up opportunities for our young players. I know the injured girls are working hard in the gym to be back as soon as possible.”
Syme on finals expectations
We’re not focused on it. We are just focusing on what's next for us, and that's North Melbourne this week. Finals were really exciting for us last year, but now we're just focused on our processes and moving forward as a group ahead of Round 2.”
