As the GIANTS get set for their first taste of Friday night footy in a blockbuster Preliminary Final re-match against the Bulldogs, take a look at all the news out of Whitten Oval this week.
Bulldogs Matthew Boyd (head) and Josh Dunkley (hip) should overcome minor injuries sustained in their come from behind win over the Brisbane Lions in time for Friday night's clash.
The Bulldogs confirmed on their club website that while experienced players Mitch Wallis and Tory Dickson are close to returning from injury, neither will be available for selection to take on the GIANTS this weekend.
AFL.com.au’s In the Mix suggested that coach Luke Beveridge could be looking to make changes to his inconsistent side, who have had to fight back from deficits to record their four wins this season.
Plenty of players in the VFL put their hands up for senior selection with second-year midfielder Bailey Williams continued his blazing start to the season with a commanding performance in Footscray's win over Werribee.
The 19-year-old amassed 31 disposals, 13 marks and three tackles in a best afield display.
Dumped playmaker Caleb Daniel gave another reminder of his worth by collecting 27 touches and six tackles.
Versatile midfielder Lukas Webb continued his good form with 25 possessions and five tackles. Impressive draftee
Tim English was prominent in the ruck again with 31 hit-outs, 16 possessions and five marks. And while AFL selection would be a left-field call, first-year forward Fergus Greene finished with a bag of five goals after kicking four in his VFL debut last week.
Both sides will be named at 6:25pm on Thursday night ahead of Friday night’s blockbuster.
GIANTS co-captain Callan Ward spoke to the Canberra Times this week about lining up in the club’s first-ever prime time game.
"I remember when I was a kid I used to love watching footy on a Friday night," Ward said.
"Even now when I'm playing on a Saturday, I still love to watch the footy on a Friday night.
"It's definitely exciting for the footy club to be involved on a Friday night because we know that plenty of people watch that game and they're always pretty entertaining.
"I know that if I was living in Canberra I'd be definitely buying a ticket early and I'd be getting down there on a Friday night.”
The GIANTS and the Western Bulldogs clash at UNSW Canberra Oval on Friday, April 28 at 7:50pm, CLICK HERE to purchase your tickets.
