AFL fixtures 2017: Sydney Swans and GWS to meet in ANZAC weekend blockbuster at the SCG

THE battle for AFL supremacy in Sydney will resume early in the season when GWS meet the Swans in an ANZAC weekend round five blockbuster at the SCG.

Sydney’s footy fans won’t have to wait long for their local derby next year with the Swans and Giants set to meet in round five at the SCG, with the clash set down for Saturday night, April 22 as part of the ANZAC weekend.

Just two seasons ago the Sydney Derby generated little interest outside the harbour city but this time around the eyes of the AFL will be on what will be a heavyweight clash between two of this season’s top four finishers.

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“The derby is now one of the hallmarks of the AFL calendar and indeed the sporting calendar in Sydney,” Giants CEO David Matthews said.

Giants v the Swans has become a defining contest in the AFL season.

“This year’s first ever derby final attracted over 60,000 people and was undoubtedly a seminal moment for Australian football in New South Wales.

Next year’s first derby promises to continue what has quickly become a terrific rivalry in Australian sport with anticipation growing. We look forward to Round 5 of the 2017 season when the Swans host us at the SCG before we return the favour at Spotless Stadium later in the season.”

The AFL almost had an all Sydney grand final last year when the Giants came within six points of joining the Swans in this year’s season-ender.

“The Swans and GWS have played in some big games in the past, the rivalry is clearly building and this match will be another fierce contest,” Swans football manager Tom Harley said.

Over 60,000 fans watched the first finals meeting between the clubs.

“With the game being played on a Saturday night at the SCG in ANZAC round it will hold extra significance for all involved.”

Both teams are set to improve with relatively young playing lists and the injection of even more talent through next month’s draft. The Giants hold second pick and will be also looking forward to bringing in academy talents, Will Setterfield, Harry Perryman and Harrison Macreadie. They have also signed Richmond champion Brett Deledio on a three year deal.

The Swans will also have two picks in the top 20 (9 and 19) for the first time since 2009 when they drafted Gary Rohan and Lewis Jetta.

The Giants are the $4.50 (tab.com.au) favourites to win next year’s premiership ahead of the Western Bulldogs ($5.00) and the Swans ($6.50).

Originally published as AFL fixtures 2017: Sydney Swans and GWS to meet in ANZAC weekend blockbuster at the SCG