The GWS Giants are set to face off against the Hawthorn Hawks in a decisive final that could determine their fate in the AFL season. With both sides looking to keep pace in their respective divisions, this much-anticipated matchup should be one of the best this year, taking place at the Giants’ home turf. Josh Kelly has been selected as a tactical substitute for the match. His stellar 229-game international playing experience will add depth, proven skill and championship savvy to the mid-field pairing.
Josh Kelly, another major contributor from last year’s championship Giants team, adds an all-important depth piece. Despite never making the starting 22, he’s logged some big time minutes. His tactical flexibility as a sub might prove to be key help when the time comes to enter the game. The Giants, as we know, have undergone a massive lineup overhaul. They included back nasty gatekeepers forwards Jesse Hogan and Jake Stringer, both of whom are ready to blow the roof off the joint with heavy hands and KO power.
Hawthorn, too, have shuffled their team, with Changkuoth Jiath to start as their medical sub. Jiath’s inclusion is a testament to the team’s continued goal of improving flexibility and adaptability across the course of the match. To get it done, the Hawks will need to make the most of their own talented players, taking advantage of what the Giants do poorly.
The GWS Giants bench is Harry Himmelberg, Jake Riccardi, Xavier O’Halloran and Callum Brown. What’s more, each of these players offers intangible skills and experience that could prove pivotal when the rebounding gets rough and the victory is within reach. Harvey Thomas and Ryan Angwin are set up on the edges. They are prepared to step up, to support and sustain their fellow players’ efforts as the game develops.
As the two sides get set for this important clash, the pressure is on. A victory might just catapult the Giants’ hope and confidence, perhaps leading to a deeper finals run. A defeat could be their last match in the tournament. One thing is needless to say, fans will definitely be looking closely as these two match up fierce and competitive to the final whistle.
