THE GWS Giants are set for a stunning finals berth after demolishing reigning champs Richmond Tigers by 39 points at Marvel Stadium.
In a virtual elimination final, the Giants (10-10-1) never really looked troubled despite missing star Toby Greene through suspension, with Tim Taranto (four goals) and Harry Himmelberg (three goals) dominating an understrength Richmond.
Jesse Hogan, who kicked four goals last time these sides met earlier in the season, gave the Giants the opening major of the night.
Two free kicks then proved costly for the Tigers.
A brilliant finish by Tim Taranto followed by a long bomb from Daniel Lloyd quickly put the Giants up by 18 points.
It was the Giants’ biggest first term of the season, and the biggest quarter-time score against Richmond since 2016.
GWS ran out 16.10 (106) to 10.7 (67) winners.
It now looks almost certain GWS will make the eight after an 0-3 start to the season, while reigning premiers Richmond will miss out.
The Giants’ win propels them up into seventh spot on the ladder, ahead of West Coast for now and clear of the morass of sides on nine wins.
Most importantly they’re now in control of their own fate, and a win over Carlton on Saturday, August 21, from 12pm, at Marvel Stadium, will guarantee the Giants a finals berth.
