AFL 2026: Dean Cox press conference after Sydney Swans Preliminary Final loss, vs Fremantle Dockers, extremely proud of club, Dane Rampe future, reaction, video, latest news

Dean Cox said he was “extremely proud” of the Sydney Swans despite a heartbreaking preliminary final loss to Fremantle at home. After leading by 28 points deep in the third quarter, the Swans conceded the last six goals, with Fremantle surging after three-quarter time and winning the match at the start of the final term. Cox pointed to missed opportunities and the need to play “120 minutes” against the Dockers, praising their season-long consistency. Five Swans—Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon and Riley Bice—were stood down after breaching club standards on August 17, and fringe players were recalled for Round 24.