GWS captain Stephen Coniglio could return from a toe injury to bolster the Giants’ push for an AFL finals berth in a must-win final-round clash with Carlton.
A comprehensive 39-point victory over Richmond on Friday night put the Giants on the verge of locking in a top-eight spot heading into round 23.
Leon Cameron’s men have the benefit of knowing their destiny is in their own hands, with matchwinner Toby Greene certain to play against the Blues after serving a one-match suspension for striking.
Former skipper Phil Davis will be in the mix after being overlooked for the Tigers clash, while Coniglio and Sam Reid (ankle) both impressed on their comebacks from injury in a scratch match with Richmond’s reserves on Friday.
Coniglio was sidelined for more than three months with an ankle injury and has managed just four games this year – most recently in round 18 – but now shapes as a potentially important inclusion for the business end of the season.
“It’s a good step in the right direction, which is fantastic, because a week or so ago it wasn’t looking as great and maybe he might not have even been able to get back and play footy this year,” Cameron said.
“But it was a really good, successful return and hopefully he can build on that.
“It’s going to put pressure on our match committee again, which is good because it means everyone’s fighting for spots.”
There is a strong chance the AFL will scrap the pre-finals bye in order to get finals played when possible amid the uncertainty caused by changing COVID-19 restrictions in different states.
Cameron felt his side had benefited from a week off before the finals to recuperate in previous seasons but understands the league’s position.
He said the decision on the bye – set to be made in the days before round 23 – will not affect his selection for the Carlton game.
“We’ll be going full steam ahead regardless of whatever decision is made,” Cameron said.
“We need to win; if we don’t beat Carlton, we probably won’t play finals.
“Our finals (effectively) started last week against Geelong, we’re now two finals in and we’ve got a third one next week.”
Meanwhile, the Giants have been buoyed by young star Sam Taylor agreeing to a contract extension that will keep him at the club until the end of 2025.
The defender’s signature comes just days after gun midfielder Josh Kelly inked a massive new eight-year deal.
AAP
