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The AFL’s two new boys clash as the GWS Giants and Gold Coast Suns seek their first win of the season. We’ll have live scores and updates from 1.40pm AEST.
Rarely has a match-up between two sides so low on the ladder generated this much interest.
Manuka Oval, of all places, is the scene for a battle that has divided opinion all week.
My Roar colleague Cameron Rose stuck his neck out on Monday and claimed the Giants will win.
His reasoning was that Kevin Sheedy would be sensing the opportunity ahead of him, Callan Ward is a strong best on ground candidate and Tom Scully is due for his best game as a Giant yet.
According to Cameron, “more than anything, I just sense that the old master Kevin Sheedy is capable of pulling one out of the bag against the odds.”
Another Roar colleague, Vince Rugari, defied this view the next day with a piece outlining why the Suns should win.
His reasoning included that the Suns have found form in recent weeks even without Ablett and the only tall target that could outmuscle their defence (Setanta O’hAilpin) is out for the season. He noted the standout performances of David Swallow and Karmichael Hunt last week.
According to Vince, “The simple fact is that GWS can’t beat Gold Coast this weekend without a Gold Coast mental collapse.”
This one isn’t easy to tip, that’s for sure. The form of both teams in recent weeks has been promising.
I heard a radio reporter last Sunday claim that GWS had been thrashed by Carlton.
It was some shocking reporting – the Giants were within 10 points at half time and the Blues only took control after Dean Brogan was subbed off due to injury and another tall, O’hAilpin, left the game not long after.
The final margin – 67 points – didn’t look so flash, but it didn’t tell the full story and even if it did, this is Carlton we’re talking about, a side that should make the top four.
The most impressive youngsters for GWS included Toby Greene and Stephen Coniglio, while Ward had a quite one, perhaps a sign he’s on the verge of a big game this week.
Gold Coast, meanwhile, were able to push Fremantle at home, losing by seven points in a genuine thriller.
Bennell was the clear standout with his 37 disposals and three goals. Dion Prestia and Sam Iles also impressed. The worry, though, was the season-ending injury to the all-important Nathan Bock.
The big news on Thursday was that Gary Ablett and Michael Rischitelli are both back for the Suns. Those are some huge ins.
The Giants have made a host of changes, but you feel Gold Coast should get the job done today.
It’s sure to be an enjoyable contest.