The GIANTS have made three changes for this Friday’s exciting clash with the Eagles at Optus Stadium.
Returning to the side is leading ruck, Kieren Briggs, who has missed the last three games managing an ankle injury.
Prior to his injury, Briggs had played every game since Opening Round and was averaging 26.7 hit-outs, 5.4 clearances and 13.5 disposals.
Briggs will return to the side in place of young ruck Nick Madden and is expected to match up on former teammate Matt Flynn.
After making his AFL debut in the club’s convincing Opening Round win over the Magpies, utility James Leake will return for his third game of the season.
Playing predominantly in defence as well as some time on ball, Leake has shown a great ability to not only nullify his direct opponent but also win plenty of his own footy at VFL level where he is averaging 24.2 disposals and 4.7 marks across 10 games this season to earn an AFL recall.
Also earning an AFL call up on the back of impressive VFL form is young key forward Max Gruzewski.
One of the most dominant forwards in the VFL this season, Gruzewski also enters Adam Kingsley’s side for his third game of the season following a string of brilliant VFL form which has the 20-year-old sitting fourth on the VFL goalkicking tally with 33 majors from 12 games this season.
Gruzewski and Leake come into the side for injured duo Jesse Hogan (foot soreness) and Lachie Whitfield (concussion.)
The GIANTS will take on the Eagles under the bright lights of Optus Stadium on Friday night, with the match getting underway at 6:20pm AEST / 8:20pm AWST.
