The last spot in the AFL's final four for the season is up for grabs as the GWS Giants host the Brisbane Lions in what is a high-octane finals clash. The Giants were dealt an early blow with star midfielder Stephen Coniglio subbed off at quarter time due to a head knock. Tonight's winner will face Geelong in next week's preliminary final, while the season is over for the loser.
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The Giants get off to a flying start
The Giants started the game strongly, with a series of early goals. This early dominance included a massive goal from Giants skipper Toby Greene to start the fourth quarter. They have now kicked the last three. GWS 15.8 98 lead Lions 9.13 67.
Hogan a hero for the Giants
The Giants’ lead grew to 25 points thanks to a brilliant performance from Jesse Hogan, who was instrumental in ensuring that the Giants did not lose their hard-fought lead in a thrilling third quarter. The Giants stretched out their lead again to 25 points, after a genuine scare from Brisbane, who kicked five in a row in the term. Tom Green has 26 disposals for the Giants, Dayne Zorko has 20 for Brisbane.
Hogan had a crucial goal assist for O’Halloran, and then kicked a goal of his own to end the quarter. Hogan has been absolutely outstanding tonight with five goals and eight marks and has absolutely towelled up Jack Payne.
The Lions fight back
The Lions came back from behind to make it a game in the third quarter. The Giants 12.8 80, lead Lions 5.12 42. The Lions kicked four goals in a row to reduce the deficit to 19 points and then three in a row to trim the margin to 25 points. However, the Giants were able to hold on and secure the win.
Giants secure the win
The Giants were able to hold on and secure the win. The Lions were able to kick five goals in a row in the third quarter, but the Giants were able to respond with three goals in a row to end the quarter. The Giants were able to control the fourth quarter and secure the victory.
A night to remember
It was a night to remember for the Giants, who are now one game away from a grand final appearance. The Giants will be looking to carry their momentum into next week’s preliminary final.
The Brisbane Lions will be disappointed to have lost, but they can hold their heads high after a valiant effort. The Lions will be looking to regroup and come back stronger next year.
