He was Sydney’s selection surprise. But Callum Sinclair became the surprise packet in the Swans’ elimination final pasting of Essendon.
Had Swans coach John Longmire been after vindication for his shock decision to drop big man Kurt Tippett, the beanpole ruckman provided it in spades on Saturday at the SCG as the home side steamrolled the Bombers by 65 points.
Sinclair, who was retained in the Swans’ ruck at the expense of the high-priced Tippett, repaid Longmire’s faith with an imposing display, dominating both the quarter-line and Bombers defenders Michael Hurley and Michael Hartley.
The 27-year-old took a total nine marks, including four in the first quarter, and added three majors to Lance Franklin’s four and Dean Towers’ own hat-trick.
Sinclair had offered a hint of his potential as a September weapon for Longmire in July when, recalled from the reserves, he kicked five goals and took 10 marks against St Kilda in a career-best performance.
The fact he had kicked a total four goals in his prior 11 games and taken 11 marks in his previous five was a signal he might spark a change.
On Saturday, the former West Coast man put his big-stage game on display and, in the process, likely confirmed the end of Tippett’s senior season.
Fellow ruckman Sam Naismith, who pushed his way back into the team on return from an abdominal strain, was also strong often ensuring the Swans had first use out of the ruck.