In two days time, we're back at the polo grounds in Thailand, pictured above from our 2012 campaign, for the 2013 Asian Champs.

In two days time, we’re back at the polo grounds in Thailand, pictured above from our 2012 campaign, for the 2013 Asian Champs.

In  Part I of his 2013 Asian Champs Preview, Saigon Captain, Billy Crang, takes a closer look at the Squad.

Something old…

We’ve got it all going into the 2013 Champs. In fact the Swannies are coming of age. We’re 10 this year and that is starting to show with our standing in Asian footy. Must back it up on the field in the tournament that counts though. Furthermore, Kevin Hornblower is attending his 10th personal Asian Champs. But, who said old? He’s managed to turn back the clock and is even looking at the possibility of anchoring down a position in the centre in some key games.

Something new…

A mere month ago the Swannies were mourning the loss of 12 key players. Coming into the Champs we welcome more than that number of virgins and all strong recruits. The Swannies go from strength to strength. From the south, I’d like to welcome Trent, Dan, Josh Cop and Big Dog, Alex, Andy, Bill Sullivan, Luke M, Pots and Manu. From the north, I welcome Ben, Nick, Adrian to the squad and look forward to watching them carve up across the day.

Something borrowed…

It says, “You can leave the country but you can’t leave the club, Honk!” on the world’s most despised trophy and this rings true with the Swans borrowing some of our favorite sons from other clubs for this year’s Champs Tilt. Dave O’Shea is sticking with the Swans much to the dismay of his new Bintang mates. Matty Nat has committed to the Swannies’ cause pending work commitments and Timmy Pickert will be back with the Swannies as well.

Something blue…

GUS’s ankle has spent the past month black and blue and double it’s regular size. Despite the bad signs, GUS has stayed on his detox program (mostly) and remained positive (somewhat) and has shown impressive signs in the last week to be ready to take on another Champs.

Billy will return tomorrow with Part II of his preview. But more to come on this website with just two more sleeps before the 2013 Asian Champs – Asia’s premier tournament.