The UWS GIANTS are just one win away from a guaranteed preliminary final berth after defeating Queanbeyan in Canberra by 37 points.
The GIANTS remain on top of the NEAFL ladder and will secure a week-off in the first round of finals if they can win one of their two remaining matches against Swans Reserves and Brisbane Lions Reserves.
The UWS GIANTS led from start to finish against Queanbeyan with defender Curtly Hampton pushing his claim for a senior recall after successfully returning from injury.
“It was a solid game from Curtly and good to see him get through after the shoulder injury he had,” UWS GIANTS coach Brett Hand said.
“Curtly played on ball a little bit and was really good in defence. He got through the game unscathed which is what he needed to do.”
Veteran Stephen Gilham wound back the clock with six goals while Mark Whiley continued his great season with another exceptional performance in the midfield.
“We moved Gilham forward this week to give us a target and he presented really well,” Hand said.
“Whiley’s contested work around stoppages was very good again and Nathan Wilson was fantastic providing drive from the backline.”
Hand said ruckmen Andrew Phillips and Jon Giles were also dominant around the ground.
The UWS GIANTS clash with their cross-town rivals Swans Reserves from 10am this Saturday at the SCG.
Last time the sides met it was the GIANTS who ran out 43-point winners.
UWS GIANTS 17.12 (114) def. Queanbeyan 11.11 (77)
Best Players: M. Whiley , A. Phillips , N. Wilson , S. Gilham , C. Hampton , J. Finlayson
Goal Kickers: S. Gilham 6, J. Finlayson 2, M. Whiley 2, M. Flynn 2, A. Phillips , N. Wilson , K. Merson , J. Giles , J. Stewart
