Sydney Swans v Essendon Match Day Information

On the eve of tomorrow night’s blockbuster clash with Essendon at the SCG, the Sydney Swans are pleased to announce that the club has surpassed its membership target of 40,000 for the 2014 season.It is the first time the club has reached the 40,000 mark and represents a significant increase from last season’s record total of 36,358, which was reached off the back of the 2012 premiership.Sydney Swans CEO Andrew Ireland said it was a fantastic milestone to reach ahead of one of the club’s biggest home matches of the season.“As a club we set a benchmark of 40,000 members for the 2014 season and to achieve that is a wonderful result,” he said.“We thank all 40,007 members who have signed up for 2014 and hope they understand how important their support will be as we near the season’s end.“Sydney remains the toughest sporting market in Australia and we recognise there is still a lot of work to be done, but we are delighted that the club continues to grow and is in a strong position both on and off the field.”Sydney Swans senior coach John Longmire added his thanks to the fans."To reach 40,000 members is a huge result and our thanks go out to each and every one of you," he said."Wherever we go, we see and hear the support, and it is just so important."We have been lucky to have sensational home crowds this year, and we look forward to the support of another big crowd tomorrow night against Essendon at the SCG.”Fewer than 1000 tickets remain for Friday night’s match against Essendon at the SCG.The club is nearing another milestone, with less than 600 people needed to become just the fourth AFL club to pass 50,000 followers on Twitter. Follow the Sydney Swans on Twitter here