Brisbane’s own Jonathan Brown has identified GWS as a surprise contender for this year’s premiership, despite their current position in seventh place on the ladder. Collingwood stands out as the dominant team, holding a six-point lead at the top, while the reigning champs Brisbane have also shown their strength when necessary. Geelong is likely to secure another top-four finish, with Adelaide emerging as a potential dark horse after a dismal season last year.
Brown is particularly optimistic about GWS as Adam Kingsley’s squad hits their stride in the latter part of the season. The Giants’ 2025 campaign had initially sparked considerable expectations, thanks to their impressive finish in 2024. Their chances have been further lifted by the recent performances of former Essendon player Jake Stringer and standout rookie Aaron Cadman. Veteran Stephen Coniglio’s return from injury and the impending comeback of star defender Sam Taylor add to their momentum, while they rested key players Jesse Hogan and Jake Kelly during a recent match against Essendon.
Reflecting on GWS’s near-misses in the past two finals series, Brown stated that their form suggests they should have claimed the premiership last year, having comfortably led against both Sydney and Brisbane before faltering. “They always make a late-season surge. They play an exciting brand of footy with a host of star players,” he commented. Brown wouldn’t be shocked to see GWS lift the premiership trophy at season’s end, citing the current top-tier teams—Brisbane and Collingwood—as their main competitors.
In their recent match against Essendon, GWS demonstrated strength, winning by 48 points. However, they started sluggishly; Essendon’s inability to convert led to a less pressured game than expected. Coach Adam Kingsley voiced his concerns about the team’s performance, pointing out weaknesses in ball retention and defensive efforts.
Despite Brown’s enthusiasm, the Giants face an uphill battle for a finals berth, competing with Fremantle, Hawthorn, and the Western Bulldogs. A crucial match against Sydney awaits in round 20, essential for their finals hopes. GWS’s remaining fixtures include games against the Bulldogs, North Melbourne, Gold Coast, and St Kilda. Winning at least two of these matches could secure them a place in the finals, pushing them to a potential 14 wins by the end of the season.