JASPAR WILSON-KEIR | JUNE 15, 2026
SOUTHPORT started brightly and remained in the fight throughout the afternoon, but Sydney’s ability to capitalise on key moments saw the visitors record a 17.16 (118) to 12.10 (82) victory.
The Sharks could not have asked for a better start.
Young small forward Bailey Rawson opened the scoring after a centre clearance from Zac Foot (28 disposals), launching a long-range effort from beyond 50 metres to give the home side the perfect start.
Moments later, debutant Ben Major made an immediate impact, taking a strong mark and converting truly to extend Southport’s early advantage.
While the Sharks generated early momentum, the Swans gradually worked their way into the contest and took a narrow eight-point lead into quarter time.
Sydney continued to build pressure in the second term, edging further ahead before the main break despite Southport remaining competitive around the contest.
The Sharks stayed within striking distance throughout the third quarter, with Sam Lowson (15 disposals, five tackles, four goals) providing a spark in attack. The dangerous small forward kicked two goals for the term and looked threatening whenever the ball hit the ground, helping Southport remain within reach heading into the final change.
Despite being undermanned, Southport continued to fight until the final siren, refusing to let the contest get away and continuing to create opportunities going forward.
Captain Jacob Dawson (34 disposals, nine clearances) was influential in his 100th VFL appearance, finishing with two goals and leading from the front throughout the contest.
Lowson finished as the standout forward in an impressive performance, while Max Pescud continued his form and was among the Sharks’ best. In defence, veteran Max Spencer (21 disposals) battled hard all day.
Southports next game will be at Fankhauser Reserve Saturday June 20, taking on Geelong at 12:05pm.
SOUTHPORT 2.2 5.3 8.8 12.10 (82)
SYDNEY SWANS 3.4 8.9 11.10 17.16 (118)
GOALS: Lowson 4, Dawson 2, Rawson 2, Casalini, Day, Major, Pescud
BEST PLAYERS: Lowson, Pescud, Dawson, Spencer
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