Draftees shined and the forward line fired as the GIANTS ramped up their pre-season preparations with their longest match simulation of the summer thus far, playing six reduced periods at GIANTS HQ.

The GIANTS were tested in their final match simulation in conditions that could resemble those seen in next week’s practice game against the Swans at Tramway Oval.  

ORANGE TSUNAMI 

It didn’t take long for the GIANTS’ blistering playing style to take centre stage, with a brilliant passage of play from defence to attack highlighting the side’s slick ball movement for the first goal of the day. 

Starting from a Wade Derksen kick out, the ball moved swiftly through Cody Angove, Brent Daniels and Toby Greene before ending up with speed machine Darcy Jones who kicked the first major of the day in a brilliant passage of play.  

DASHING DARCY  

Following his opening goal the show didn’t stop for Darcy Jones who was at his eye-catching best on Friday with several moments of brilliance across the match sim to show he’s ready for a big season 2025.   

Also having moments as a midfielder, Jones’ pace and ability to get himself out of trouble to create for himself and teammates was at its usual high level as the dynamic 20-year-old finished with an equal game-high three goals. 

FORWARDS FIRE 

The GIANTS’ star-studded forward line was on full display on Friday, with boom recruit Jake Stringer taking his place in a mouthwatering forward line alongside the likes of Jesse Hogan, Toby Greene, Brent Daniels, Aaron Cadman, and Jones. 

The dynamic forward line – which was up against the likes of Sam Taylor, Jack Buckley, and Connor Idun – fired on all cylinders as Hogan (three goals), Jones (three), Cadman (two), Greene (one), and Stringer (one) all hit the scoreboard, while Daniels weaved his magic further up the ground to lend a hand in numerous scoring chains.   

DANCING DELANA 

While many of the GIANTS stars shone on Friday, arguably none put in a better showing than recent GIANTS Academy graduate Josaia Delana who played well beyond his years to make an extremely strong impression.   

Playing across half forward, the Western Sydney teenager collected disposals at will to play a key part in numerous goals for the orange side. 

Showing off his pace and his eye-catching sidestep, the dancing Delana continually made the right decision in a brilliant outing.  

While Delana starred, he wasn’t the only draftee who impressed on Friday, with Ollie Hannaford (two goals) and Cody Angove other newcomers with very strong moments throughout the day.  

HALF-BACK HEROES  

The familiar faces of Lachie Whitefield and Lachie Ash were at their rebounding best off half-back in Friday’s match sim, with the pair using their trademark run and carry and pinpoint skills to full effect despite the sometimes tough conditions.  

Joining the established duo as a driving force out of the backline was Conor Stone who is looking to become a more regular selection at AFL level in 2025. 

Having been moved down back in the VFL last year – which ultimately saw him win the GIANTS’ VFL Player of the Year award – Stone continues to impress behind the ball as he looks to break his way into Adam Kingsley’s best side more permanently this season.   

BRAWN BRIGGS  

Already one of the competition’s top young ruckmen, Kieren Briggs looks set to take his game to even greater heights in 2025 following a brilliant summer on the track. 

Returning from the Christmas break in the best condition of his career, Briggs is fit and firing and looks ready for a monster 2025 season following an impressive showing in Friday’s match sim.  

Battling it out with promising up and coming ruck Nick Madden, Briggs continued to give his midfielders first use while moving well around the ground well in an exciting showing from the 25-year-old. 

KING KEEFFE 

One of the most popular people at the club, Lachlan Keeffe continues to show his value on the field with another starring cameo in Friday’s match sim.   

Often utilised as a third key tall and a backup ruck, Keeffe once again provided a great contest and a big target ahead of the ball to show there’s still plenty left in the 34-year-old’s legs. 

The 204cm veteran finished Friday’s match sim with an equal game-high three goals to once again show he’s extremely capable of contributing in the GIANTS’ best 23.   

Match Sim Goal Kickers:  

White: Jesse Hogan 3, Darcy Jones 3, Aaron Cadman 2, Jake Stringer, Toby Greene  

Orange: Lachlan Keeffe 3, Harvey Thomas 2, Ollie Hannaford 2, Jake Riccardi 2, Nathan Wardius 2, Lachie Ash, Marc Sheather, James Lugsdin