The North Melbourne captain says the players were extremely disappointed with the late fadeout at AAMI Stadium and are desperate to turn things around against the Lions.
“To give up a 32-point lead in the last quarter is unacceptable and we as a playing group know that. We let down ourselves and our loyal supporters.”
North dominated much of the game, but after Cameron Pedersen kicked a goal with 15 minutes remaining on the clock, failed to trouble the scorers. In that time, the Power kicked 5.4 including the match-winner with just 45 seconds left.
“The flight home was probably the most sombre I’ve experienced during my time at the club, but what I took from that is my team-mates aren’t accepting of efforts like that. They know it wasn’t good enough," Swallow added.
“Yesterday’s review revealed plenty of home truths and highlighted the areas we were exposed in late in the match. We won’t let it happen again.”
With a 3-5 record after eight rounds, the Kangaroos need a win to stay in touch of the top eight.
“It’s an eight day break so there can’t be any excuses on the rebound from an interstate trip.
“Jonathan Brown and Daniel Merrett pulled down 28 marks between them on Sunday, and we can’t allow them into the game.”
The Round 9 clash is the club's last home fixture for a month and Swallow says the players will be doing their all to reward the faith of the fans.
“We can’t take back what happened against the Power, but I can assure you we’ll continue to believe in our abilities, be uncompromising and above all, do everything for our members and North Melbourne.
“Our 32,684 members are amazing to have by our side, and I encourage you to stick with us. Don’t underestimate how much the players love running out to a big sea of royal blue and white in the crowd. Let’s make Etihad Stadium ours on Sunday."
North Melbourne v Brisbane Lions
Sunday 27th May, 1.10pm EST
Etihad Stadium
