Highly respected former Herald Sun journalist Mike Sheahan has declared Greater Western Sydney have a firm grip on one spot in this year’s Grand Final.
The Giants defeated West Coast by 33 points in their opening JLT Community Series clash in Narrandera, despite missing more than 10 first-choice players in a display Sheahan described as "compelling" – particularly in the first quarter.
“I’ve never been in mid-February and watched a team and said that team will play in the Grand Final, 17 sides are playing for one spot this year,” he said on SEN Breakfast.
“GWS that first 20 minutes was overpowering, it was compelling to watch that against West Coast, they made West Coast look like the old Brisbane Bears.
“Grand Final day it’s all square when you get there, but they will play in the Grand Final.”
He said the Giants were stung by their heartbreaking loss to the Western Bulldogs in last year’s preliminary final and will provide extra motivation.
“They were burnt by what happened in the preliminary final last year, they believed they should’ve been, they are convinced they should’ve played in the Grand Final,” Sheahan said.
One player who attracted Sheahan’s attention on Saturday with his three goals was key forward Jonathon Patton, whom he believes is ready to become a star of the competition.
“The one who took my fancy was Jonathon Patton,” he said.
“He’s had knee problems for two years, (but) he looked mighty I reckon. He looked overpowering.
“Patton looked like he was playing with a junior footy, he wrapped his hands around it, kicked goals and gave it off.
“He look really hungry and fit, and I think he’s going to be a star.”
Click here to view Jonathon Patton's SEN Inside Football Player Ratings