The GIANTS Reserves’ title defence gets under way this Saturday when they take on the Gold Coast Suns Reserves in the NEAFL curtain raiser at Spotless Stadium.

Last season saw Brad Miller’s side claim the first piece of silverware for the GIANTS trophy cabinet in a thrilling four-point Grand Final victory over the Sydney Swans Reserves.

However, the side that clinched the club’s maiden premiership has a vastly different look to it this year, with a number of key players from last year’s success taking opportunities at other AFL clubs in the off-season.

James Stewart (Essendon), Jack Steele (St Kilda), Rhys Palmer (Carlton) and Jake Barrett (Brisbane) were all among the GIANTS best players on a regular basis last season and played key roles in the team’s victory.

One of the club’s strengths last season was the competition for spots in both the AFL and NEAFL teams, with several players making their AFL debuts on the back of outstanding form for the GIANTS Reserves; and this year will be no different.

Sam Reid will again take the reigns as captain of the side that will feature a number of GIANTS Academy draftees including number five pick Will Setterfield, Harry Perryman (pick 14), Isaac Cumming (pick 20) and Lachie Tizani (pick 54).

Despite losing pre-season trial matches against the Swans Reserves and Sydney University, the GIANTS will head into the clash with a good record against the Suns, having beaten them the last two times they played.

Throughout the season the GIANTS Reserves will feature in six curtain-raisers at Spotless Stadium as well games in Blacktown, Canberra and Wagga Wagga.

The GIANTS’ round one NEAFL clash starts at 12.55pm with gates open at 12.30pm and the AFL game to follow at 4.35pm.