Sydney remains undefeated despite early season injury setbacks
AFL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 1, 2026, 1:10 AM
Last updated Sep 1, 2026

Sydney currently holds a 3-0 record to start the AFLW season despite managing a series of player injuries. Coach Colin O’Riordan noted that the team relies on a "next person up" strategy to maintain performance when roster spots open due to health concerns. Key forward Taylor Smith sustained a fractured forearm during the win over Essendon, while Laura Gardiner and Ash Van Loon played through soreness during a 23-point victory against Euro-Yroke. Rookies Emma Juneja, Imogen Brown, Maddie Quinn, and Molly Thomas have contributed to the team's depth during this stretch. The coaching staff is preparing for potential returns for Smith, Tanya Kennedy, Jas Grierson, and Holly Cooper, pending final medical fitness tests at training later this week.
- •Sydney maintains a 3-0 record through the first three weeks of the season.
- •Taylor Smith is recovering from a fractured forearm sustained against Essendon.
- •Four rookies have earned senior selection to address roster gaps.
- •Four injured players face fitness tests ahead of upcoming weekend fixtures.
- 1:10 AMAFL — 'Next person up' attitude has 3-0 Swans defying injuries
"Despite a number of sidelined stars, Sydney's system is getting early wins on the board, says Colin O'Riordan
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