Preview: Giants v TigersBy James Dampney
Wed 14 Mar, 2012WHERE AND WHEN: Manuka Oval, Canberra, Saturday, 17 March, 12.30pm AEDT
LAST TIME: First meeting
TV & RADIO:
www.afl.com.au/broadcast guide/tabid/9451/default.aspx
THE FOUR POINTS
Greater Western Sydney1. Can the Giants take another step forward after upsetting Gold Coast last week for their first NAB Cup win? Not too many tipped GWS to beat the Suns and that seemed to include the Giants, who clearly still hadn't learned their new club song after the 13-point triumph. That result has to give them confidence as they take on the Tigers for the first time.
2. How many places are left in Kevin Sheedy's team for the round one clash with the Sydney Swans on March 24? AFL-experienced guns such as Callan Ward, Chad Cornes and Phil Davis are certainties to face the Swans, while the likes of Jeremy Cameron, Steve Clifton, Toby Greene and Anthony Miles have had good pre-seasons. But there is sure to be the odd spot still to be determined and a good showing against Richmond will help.
Richmond3. While the Giants will be boosted by an upset win over Gold Coast, a 59-point thumping of the Cats in Geelong would have given Richmond an enormous injection of confidence. Can they show some consistency leading into the season and swat aside GWS in Canberra, or will some frailties again rear their heads?
4. Can Ivan Maric continue his strong pre-season and build on his growing cult status? While his impressive mullet has been drawing attention, it is the new recruit's stoppage work that will most be winning over the Richmond coaching staff. Facing Jonathan Giles in the ruck, and possibly Israel Folau, Maric's development should continue full steam ahead of round one.
http://www.afl.com.au/tabid/208/default.aspx?newsid=130658