In a good omen for the season ahead, the Giants downed the Gold Coast by 44 points in their final pre-season hit-out.
After missing last week’s match, Toby Greene was outstanding and finished with three goals as his side cruised to the 15.15 (105) to 9.7 (61) victory at Manuka Oval on Thursday night.
Midfield bull Tom Green looked as powerful as ever, racking up 30 touches, eight clearances and a goal, while winger Xavier O’Halloran (25 disposals) carved up the Suns through the middle of the ground.
This allowed their forwards to cash in, with Greene (three goals, five marks) a constant threat up forward, while Callum Brown (three goals), Brent Daniels and Jake Riccardi (both two) also hit the scoreboard.
What followed was a 76-3 onslaught during which the Suns looked entirely uncompetitive, though they rallied late and booted five straight goals in the second half when the Giants rested some of their key cogs.
Giants coach Adam Kingsley saw his side dominate clearances and contested possession while producing their trademark transition football to slice up the Suns and give them confidence avenging their defeat against Collingwood.
Both sides went with a tried and tested line-up, with just a handful of new faces featuring.
Giants Academy product Harvey Thomas (14 touches, three clearances, six tackles) showed plenty of skill while Toby McMullin – who featured in the three games last season – kicked a nice goal in the final term.
Slaying suns a Giant confidence booster
IN a showcase of talent, the GWS Giants have easily defeated the Gold Coast Suns in the AAMI Community Series ahead of taking on Collingwood in the Opening Round this Saturday, March 9, from 7.30pm at Giants Stadium.