In the context of the season, Greater Western Sydney’s win over Carlton was not a particularly surprising result – the Blues had previously lost to Melbourne, Brisbane and Richmond, all contenders for the bottom four.
In the context of the history of GWS, though, it was a giant leap. For the first time since the Giants’ inception, they won consecutive matches.
In the last two weeks GWS have had their biggest-ever win, kicked their highest-ever score, scored their first away win, and now won two on the trot. They have even climbed out of the bottom four.
Six weeks ago all this seemed unimaginable. In Rounds 8 and 10 they suffered consecutive 100-point losses and the public were wondering if this club would ever make it. Since then, the Giants have had competitive losses to Hawthorn and Essendon, and beaten Brisbane and Carlton.
They may have more wins on the way, too, with games against Adelaide, Richmond, Melbourne and Western Bulldogs to come. Only one of those are at home, but all are winnable.
The Giants could finish the year with six or seven wins, which would be a huge success compared to their first two seasons in the competition.
Next week is the big one, though. Their return bout against Sydney will be their biggest game yet. It would be folly to suggest they are a good chance to beat the premiership favourites, but stranger things have happened.
We all remember Round 1, when GWS shocked the Swans and the football world with a six-goal win. Of course Sydney were not the same outfit in Round 1 as they are in Round 14. Since their slow start to the season they have strung together nine wins in a row.
No, Sydney are not the same, but nor are the Giants. They have matured since then and have learnt a few lessons on what it takes to stay in games and what it takes to win.
Crucial to the Giants’ form turnaround has been the return of Shane Mumford. He leads the league for average hitouts per game this year with 43. His dominance in the ruck is bringing the midfield of Stephen Coniglio, Callan Ward and Adam Treloar into the game like never before. He is also having a career-best season for average disposals, tackles, inside 50s and rebound 50s.
Having a big man of Mumford’s ability has done wonders for this young group.
Hopefully the Sydney public will get behind the Battle of the Bridge on Saturday night. The SCG has had some of the biggest AFL crowds in its history of late, and a chance for the Giants to perform on the big stage beckons.
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Things heating up in Canberra!
We’re taking a look at one player from each team that needs to make a difference this week, starting with the ANZAC Day games.
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