With the NAB Challenge done and dusted for another year, we examined some of the key facts and figures from the GIANTS’ pre-season campaign.
Finishing with two wins (v Sydney and Brisbane) and one loss (v Western Bulldogs) the GIANTS impressed across a number of statistical categories.
On average the GIANTS eclipsed their opponents in total score (96-82), tackles (69-62) and overall disposals (337-327).
While the GIANTS had almost an identical number of inside-50 entries to their counterparts, they blew the opposition away in terms of forward-half pressure.
The GIANTS led the competition for pressure acts forward of the centre circle with Toby Greene ranking second and Callan Ward ninth overall in the AFL.
In terms of metres gained - by kick, handball or carry - it was Nathan Wilson who led the club, averaging a massive 500m per match driving from defence.
Fellow backman and reigning Kevin Sheedy Medalist, Heath Shaw led the AFL for metres gained last season so it looks like he might have some competition on his hands in 2016.
That being said, the veteran wasn’t to be out-done with Shaw leading the competition in kicks over the NAB Challenge, despite only playing two matches.
Midfielder Jack Steele put his case forward for a starting spot in the midfield after he emerged as the GIANTS’ leading contested ball winner.
Steele averaged 10 contested possessions per game and capped off a strong series with 26 touches, 11 tackles and a goal against Brisbane.
Likewise vying for a starting position, Rory Lobb did his chances no harm, taking five contested marks against the Western Bulldogs, the equal most of any GIANT in the NAB Challenge.
Lobb played all three games and was a reliable target up forward while still proving his value as a second ruck option.
There were some new faces who made their debut in GIANTS colours throughout the NAB Challenge.
Seven players including Dawson Simpson, Matt Kennedy, Jacob Hopper, Jarrod Pickett, Pat McKenna and Jeremy Finalyson made their first appearances, but it was Steve Johnson who had everyone talking.
Johnson missed the club’s first match against the Western Bulldogs before being played sparingly for the remaining two games.
It didn’t take long for the three-time Premiership star to have an impact, kicking six goals in six quarters and leading the GIANTS’ goal kicking tally.
The GIANTS’ first match of the season is against Melbourne - who went through the NAB Challenge undefeated - at the MCG on Saturday, March 26.
