AFL Hall of Famer Jason Akermanis has declared GWS as the team to beat in the race for this year’s premiership, backing the Giants over some of the competition’s more decorated outfits.
Speaking on SENQ Breakfast, the 2001 Brownlow Medallist admitted it’s a wide-open flag race, but believes Adam Kingsley’s side has both the mentality and physical edge needed to go all the way.
Despite strong campaigns from Brisbane, Collingwood and Geelong, Akermanis is all in on the orange tsunami.
“If GWS don’t win — and I mean this with all respect, you know I love Brisbane, and I love ‘Fly’ and Collingwood and Geelong are there — but GWS, man,” he said. “If you’re looking at that top eight and who should go from here and you’re just speculating, they are the team to beat, I’m telling you.”
MORE: North Melbourne's recruiting strategy slammed by AFL great
“There’s no guarantees anymore”
Akermanis acknowledged how unpredictable the race has become, but rated the Giants’ mental fortitude above the rest.
“Oh man, I don’t know, there’s no guarantees anymore,” he said. “If we’re talking about the mentality and psychology of what’s about to happen, you would think Collingwood, Brisbane and GWS.”
Currently sixth on the ladder, the Giants face a crunch clash against the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium tonight. A win would cement their finals position, but they’ll have to do it without skipper Toby Greene, defender Jack Buckley and midfielder Josh Kelly.