A starring seven-goal haul from VFL skipper Ryan Hebron and strong showings from a host of AFL-listed GIANTS saw the club’s VFL side storm to an impressive 12-point comeback win over the Swans in a VFL practice match played in searing heat on Saturday.
Played in temperatures well over 30 degrees at GIANTS HQ in Sydney Olympic Park, a dominant third term from Hebron saw the GIANTS turn a 14-point half-time deficit into a 14-point lead at the final change before running out 13.10 (88) – 12.4 (76) winners.
Already with three majors to his name at the half, Hebron was unstoppable in a monster third term where the VFL skipper kicked four of his match-high seven goals to help steer the orange tsunami to a gutsy win over the crosstown rivals.
Marking almost everything and converting from great delivery from further afield, Hebron’s brilliance was the catalyst for a huge second half from the GIANTS as they overcome a sluggish start to run out two-goal winners over the Swans.
AFL-listed duo Leek Aleer and Wade Derksen also led the way for the orange and charcoal on Saturday, with the tall defenders cutting off countless Swans forward entries and kickstarting numerous attack chains.
An emergency for Sunday’s AFL clash, Aleer was crucial down back for the VFL side, with the eye-catching defender flying high for several intercept marks and effective spoils as well as turning defence into attack with his dash and dare.
Likewise, Derksen - who is yet to debut at AFL level - was defiant down back, with the 197cm defender working well alongside Aleer to nullify AFL-listed Swan Hayden McLean while also providing drive out of the backline with his composure by foot.
Harry Rowston and Ollie Hannaford were others to impress in the win, with the AFL-listed duo’s work rate and physicality used to full effect in the tough conditions.
While Rowston led the way in the middle as he continues to put his hand up for AFL selection, Hannaford did his chances of an AFL debut no harm as he showed off his clean hands and his strong attack on the footy in another impressive showing up forward and through the middle.
Hannaford’s game was highlighted by a brilliant and ferocious third term which saw the talented teenager set the tone for the second half with numerous strong tackles while also playing a part in multiple GIANTS goals.
Category B Rookie Nathan Wardius was another who had strong moments in the win, with the crafty medium forward getting off to a red-hot start with the GIANTS’ first two goals- with the second bringing a huge applause from a host of AFL-listed GIANTS in attendance behind the goals.
Third-year ruckman Nick Madden also continued his strong VFL form as he moved well around the ground and took multiple contested marks.
Meanwhile tough midfielder Marc Sheather led the way alongside Hebron for the club’s VFL-listed cohort with another solid game in the middle alongside Rowston, while Perry Lewis-Smith also had some strong moments and capped off his day with a goal in the final term.
Their final dress rehearsal for the real season, the club’s VFL side will now turn its attention to its first game of the VFL season on Saturday, March 29 against Williamstown in Blacktown after having the bye in round one.
VFL Practice Match Final Score
GIANTS 13.10 (88)
Swans 12.4 (76)
