The UWS GIANTS brought up the first of two victories for the club at Spotless Stadium on Saturday with a 38-point win over the Swans reserves.

Number One draft pick Tom Boyd was among a number of players who put their hands up for senior selection with a four-goal haul and great tackling pressure.

Defenders Lachie Plowman, Matt Buntine and Stephen Gilham were also impressive in the side’s win. 

NEAFL Coach Brett Hand said it was good to have a solid hit-out against quality opposition and perform on the big stage.

“Our players were excited to be playing on Spotless Stadium and started the game well, getting lots of the ball in our forward half of the ground,” Hand said.

“Tom Boyd kicked a couple of good first quarter goals and our pressure on the Swans’ players was intense. Our defenders clearly dominated and provided the start of our ball movement across the backline.”

Hand praised his team’s determination for running out the game, with many players battling cramp in the late stages of the match.

“We were happy with the intensity and attack on the footy late, especially given the tough footy conditions,” he said.

The 2014 NEAFL season kicks off in a fortnight with the UWS GIANTS travelling to Darwin to play NT Thunder in the opening match on March 29.

GOALS:
Boyd 4, Hoskin–Elliott 2, Lamb, Buntine, Wilson, Barrett, Downie 1.

BEST:
Plowman, Buntine, Gilham, Kelly, O’Rourke, Williams