Overview

• Friday’s Sydney Derby kicks off at 7:50 pm at Engie Stadium, following Essendon vs. Western Bulldogs in the AFL’s non-standalone primetime slot.
• GWS has won its last five matches and can secure a top-four berth with victory while Sydney must win to sustain its finals aspirations.
• Tom Papley has trained strongly and is pressing for selection for the Swans, and the Giants expect Jesse Hogan, Sam Taylor and Josh Kelly to return from injury.
• Giants captain Toby Greene and CEO Dave Matthews have publicly criticized the decision not to make the derby a standalone fixture, insisting Sydney fans will focus on the local contest.
• GWS rising player Riak Andrew faces suspension proceedings after being cited for a homophobic slur in the VFL, prompting a club disciplinary review.