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The Sydney Swans have been upset by local rivals the GWS Giants in what was a massive upset during the first AFL Qualifying final.
The Giants only led by two points at halftime, but put the foot down during a physial second half, ending with a massive and convincing victory.
Final score
Sydney Swans – 7.13.55
GWS Giants – 12.19.91
A win for the Sydney Swans or the Greater Western Sydney Giants will see them book a home preliminary final when they face off on Saturday afternoon at ANZ Stadium. Follow all of the action from this qualifying final on The Roar from 3:20pm (AEST).
2016 is coming together nicely for Sydney and the minor premiers head into the finals as one of the premiership favourites.
The Swans are firing on all cylinders, their reliable veterans being well assisted by talented youngsters including Isaac Heeney and Callum Mills.
This year, the Giants have confirmed their credentials as a premiership threat. With the addition of some experienced players, along with getting another year into their talented youngsters, GWS have become a powerhouse with their attacking style of football.
One key aspect is the game being played at ANZ Stadium, despite the Swans playing their 2016 home games at the SCG.
Opinion is divided over who this will favour, with many considering it an advantage for the Giants as ANZ is a similar shape to their home ground, Spotless Stadium, where they play so well.
While they won’t be playing directly against each other the two spearheads will have major roles, as Lance Franklin returns to finals action against young gun Jeremy Cameron.
The other riveting battle sees the Swans’ finals-hardened midfield – including Josh Kennedy, Kieren Jack and Daniel Hannebery – face off against the Giants on-ball brigade of Callan Ward, Stephen Coniglio and Dylan Shiel.
Arguably the biggest factor in this game could be GWS’s lack of finals experience compared to the Swans. While they have added a wealth of experience with the likes of Ryan Griffen and Steve Johnson, a number of Giants are facing the acid test of finals football for the first time.
Prediction
The only thing that I can use to split these sides is finals experience, so I’m tipping the Swans in a close one.
Swans by 10 points.
Will Sydney continue their great season or can the Giants knock off their fancied rivals? Join us on The Roar from 3:20pm (AEST) for the action.
Who’s in your ultimate team? Pick the best team and compete with other fans for daily prizes on Draftstars. For the best odds on the game try out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Think. Is this a bet you really want to place? Set a deposit limit.