‘It’s time for NSW to take over’: Flying Swans and Giants set to steal the AFL spotlight

The Swans and Giants are both firmly entrenched in the top four ahead of the first Sydney Derby for 2024. And there’s genuine belief the contest has become one of the AFL’s great rivalries.

The first meeting between the Swans and Giants in 2024 could be one of the most heated Sydney Derbys yet. Picture: Phil Hillyard

The eyes of the Aussie rules world are set to be on Sydney this weekend as the Swans and Giants battle for the 27th time at the SCG on Saturday afternoon.

Both clubs have had a fast start to 2024, sitting in second and third respectively, and their first meeting of the season is set to be an incredible spectacle in front of an expected sold-out crowd.

With some nailbiting clashes in recent years, there is a genuine belief that the Sydney Derby is developing into one of the strongest rivalries in the AFL. And the players want to carry that mantle in creating a contest the rest of the competition is envious of.

“Two great teams and we’re flying at the minute,” GWS defender Connor Idun said.

“It’s great for the game. I guess Victoria has had that for a long time and I think it’s time for NSW to take over and continue that for sure.

“I don’t think it matters what ladder positions we are, every derby is a massive rivalry. They’re always close and a flip of the coin so we’re looking forward to it.”

Connor Idun claims it’s time for a “NSW takeover” in the AFL. Picture: Phil Hillyard

Idun’s teammate Sam Taylor stoked the flames earlier in the week by saying there was “dislike” between the two teams and labelling the Swans as “smug”.

Speaking on The Back Page on Tuesday night, superstar Errol Gulden admitted there might have been a bit of accuracy.

“It’s probably not that far from being true, to be honest,” Gulden said. “We definitely have a few boys who are pretty chirpy up the field.”

Chad Warner was more circumspect with his comments on Wednesday but didn’t rule out coach John Longmire using Taylor’s words as extra motivation in the lead-up to the match.

“(Sam) has earned his spot in the league as an established player,” Warner said. “He can say what he wants … the Giants are a great team who have earned that right and can’t wait to see on Saturday what happens.

“I wouldn’t say we’re any more (chirpy) than other teams. I think it’s just part of the game and it’s why other boys like Connor and myself love playing AFL.

“I think we’re also a pretty confident young group who has a coach who backs us pretty well.

“I wouldn’t say (Sam has got a target on his back). We’ll wait and see what Horse says tomorrow, he’ll have a few game plans to run through and that might be one.”

Sam Taylor’s comments aren’t worrying the Swans too much ahead of Saturday’s match. Picture: Phil Hillyard

Warner also delivered a strong endorsement of teammate Sam Wicks after the pressure forward found himself in the headlines again this week. Following Wicks’ second goal against Hawthorn, footage showed none of his fellow Swans going up to congratulate him but Warner felt it was a “non-issue”.

“To be honest, I think the stuff on the weekend was very coincidental,” he said. “I mean, I had one on the weekend that didn’t get celebrated … and as far as I’m concerned, nothing’s going on with me.

“We’ve moved on from that and he’s a valued member of the team.”

There will be fitness tests galore in the coming days as more than 1,150 games of AFL experience look to force their way into consideration for the match.

Both Stephen Coniglio (knee) and Sam Taylor (concussion) are tracking well to return alongside skipper Toby Greene from suspension for the Giants. The Swans are also hopeful of welcoming back their two former co-captains, Luke Parker and Dane Rampe.

Two of the Giants’ most experience stars Stephen Coniglio and Toby Greene are set to play in the derby. Picture: Phil Hillyard

It’s set to force a squeeze at the selection table, particularly at the Giants, who are coming off a big win against the Lions.

“We had a great win last week against Brisbane so there’s pressure for spots, and I think that’s what makes a great club,” Idun said.

“It’s tough, but I guess it puts everyone on notice around the club. It’s only positive for the club that we’re in this position and I guess all clubs strive to have selection pressure.”

“Derbys are probably at the top of his list in (Parker’s) career,” Warner added on the five-time Brett Kirk medallist. “Horse will have a few tough decisions on his hands, but it’d be great if he could play.”

Originally published as ‘It’s time for NSW to take over’: Flying Swans and Giants set to steal the AFL spotlight