Kevin Sheedy with a batch of his GWS Giants youngsters. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: Herald Sun
GWS Giants coach Kevin Sheedy has taken steps to address his side's defensive woes with two of today's three debutants set to play in the back half.
Former Hawthorn premiership player Stephen Gilham will add much-needed experience to the line-up and top-three draft pick Lachie Plowman plenty of talent.
"There's going to be some nerves and some big moments in the game and I just want to keep the guys calm and collected," Gilham said. "There's a lot of experience there now and they will give great direction."
Plowman hasn't put a foot wrong in the pre-season and was among the Giants' best in their 24-point win over St Kilda in their final NAB Cup match.
"I'm a little bit nervous because it's my first game but there's excitement in it as well," Plowman said.
"There's a big jump between the TAC Cup and the AFL so the NAB Cup has been important."
Gilham, who lives with Plowman, believes the teenager has a great chance to make his mark at the Giants in his first season and has been impressed by his work rate and temperament.
"He's been one of those players who has done everything this pre-season so he gives himself a chance at a playing not only tonight but for the rest of the season," Gilham said.
No.1 draft pick Lachie Whitfield could have his hands full when he starts his career on the wing against the fastest man in the league, Lewis Jetta.
"I don't think I could keep up with him (Jetta), I don't think anyone can," Whitfield said.
"It's been a long time waiting; ever since I was young this has been the dream.
"I'm really excited; a little bit nervous but I can't wait to get out of there."
Like Plowman, Whitfield has had an outstanding NAB Cup and has handled the dramatic step up in standard.
"It's helped me come to terms with the extra pressure and bigger bodies," Whitfield said.
"We're in pretty good form over the NAB Cup and we are very confident and even though they are the reigning champs we may catch them off guard.
"Having the underdog status is fine by us."
GWS are far better prepared for today's match than the corresponding fixture last year when more than half the team hadn't played an AFL game.
"They're much better prepared and we've got to be," Sheedy said.
"Last year we walked into a match with maybe 15 or 16 who'd never played a game."
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