SYDNEY, July 26, 2025 – Greater Western Sydney staged a stunning second-half comeback to defeat Sydney by 44 points at Engie Stadium on Friday night, effectively ending their arch-rivals’ postseason aspirations.
Giants’ 11-Goal Blitz Crushes Swans’ Finals Hopes
The Giants roared back from a significant deficit, kicking 11 unanswered goals to secure a dominant 15.12 (102) to 8.10 (58) victory.
The Giants, initially sluggish, found their rhythm with an electrifying 11-goal surge that left the Swans reeling. This win, a 44-point triumph at Engie Stadium, significantly dims Sydney’s chances of reaching the finals.
The Swans were in control for much of the first half, even leading by as much as 35 points late in the second term. They were on track for a sixth consecutive Sydney derby win. However, a dramatic shift occurred after halftime.
Greater Western Sydney unleashed a relentless attack, kicking 11 goals to Sydney’s solitary goal in the second half. They registered 20 scoring shots to the Swans’ three in that period. The Giants dominated clearances and proved clinical in front of goal. Harry Himmelberg and Lachie Ash both added goals from beyond 50 meters, while Jake Stringer also kicked a crucial goal.
Finn Callaghan was instrumental in turning the tide, shaking off the tight tag of James Jordon. Callaghan’s performance included eight disposals, four inside 50s, and 349 meters gained. He kicked the first goal after the break, igniting the Giants’ resurgence in a brilliant third quarter.
Callaghan finished with 21 disposals and earned the Brett Kirk Medal as the best afield. His ability to perform in critical moments continues to impress.
With the Giants dominating, the Swans’ attacking threats were nullified. Aaron Cadman contributed three goals, and Jesse Hogan added two in his return to the side. Jake Stringer also bagged three goals, showcasing his readiness for a strong finals campaign.
However, the Giants’ victory might have come at a price. Josh Kelly was substituted out in the final term with calf awareness, adding to the midfielder’s injury concerns.
The loss effectively eliminates the Swans from top-eight contention. They failed to respond as the Giants moved the ball with blistering pace after the main break.
Isaac Heeney started brightly for the Swans, kicking their first goal. Despite a strong start, he finished with 22 disposals, falling short of his previous week’s heroics.
Errol Gulden remained a standout for the Swans, amassing a game-high 32 disposals. Brodie Grundy also continued his impressive form, contributing 24 disposals, five clearances, and an early goal.
With Hayden McLean subbed out early due to a concussion after a high blow, Will Hayward shouldered the load in attack for the Swans. He kicked three goals from marks inside 50, but his influence waned as the ball spent most of the second half at the other end.
Giants skipper Toby Greene was a catalyst for his team’s intensity. He was involved in an early tussle with Dane Rampe and later made high contact with Isaac Heeney, resulting in a free kick reversal. Greene’s frustration was evident after being fend off by Heeney. He also drew criticism for his post-match comments about Tom Papley.
Hayden McLean’s night ended within the first minute of the game. After tracking back with the flight of the ball, he was struck high by Giants defender Sam Taylor while contesting a mark. McLean was immediately ruled out under concussion protocols.
The Giants ended their five-match losing streak against the Swans. Their second-half performance provided a strong response after a quiet start, silencing critics and snapping their derby losing run.
GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY 1.2 3.4 12.7 15.12 (102)
SYDNEY 3.5 7.8 8.8 8.10 (58)
GOALS
Greater Western Sydney: Stringer 3, Cadman 3, Bedford 2, Hogan 2, Green, Callaghan, Greene, Himmelberg, Ash
Sydney: Hayward 3, Heeney, Grundy, Mills, Papley, McInerney
BEST
Greater Western Sydney: Callaghan, Whitfield, Coniglio, Taylor, Angwin, Cadman, Himmelberg
Sydney: Gulden, Grundy, Mills, Lloyd, Hayward
INJURIES
Greater Western Sydney: Kelly (calf)
Sydney: McLean (concussion), Hamling (hamstring)
SUBSTITUTES
Greater Western Sydney: Toby McMullin (replaced Josh Kelly)
Sydney: Aaron Francis (replaced Hayden McLean)
Crowd: TBC at Engie Stadium
What was the key turning point in the Giants’ victory over the Swans? The most significant shift occurred in the third quarter when Finn Callaghan kicked the first goal after halftime, sparking an 11-goal blitz that the Swans couldn’t contain.
