Greater Western Sydney have claimed a huge scalp, beating ladder leaders Richmond by two points at Spotless Stadium in an absolute thriller to solidify their position in the top eight.
In a tight and tense affair, GWS held their nerve in frenetic finish to hold off the fast finishing Tigers to seal a memorable victory for the club.
It’s a potentially season defining result that could ignite the Giants' season as they took full advantage of Geelong and Hawthorn's defeats this round.
Richmond are still yet to win away from home this season having lost all four road trips.
Here’s everything you need to know.
The Moment: Toby Greene marks his return with vital goals
GWS star Toby Greene has endured a frustrating injury interrupted season so far.
Having not played since Round 5, Greene made a timely return for the Giants against reigning premiers Richmond.
The influential forward marked his return with a wonderful solo effort during the second quarter, as he ran rings around Tigers defender Nick Vlastuin to slot home a goal we have become accustomed to seeing from last year’s All Australian.
You've got to stay awake when Toby's got the ball!#AFLGiantsTigers pic.twitter.com/l3hhYI0DHh
— AFL (@AFL) July 14, 2018
The return of Greene could be crucial in the run home for the Giants as they look to seal a top eight finish.
Greene also slotted a massive goal in the last quarter to give the home side some much needed breathing space after the Tigers began the final term in ominous fashion.
The Star: Lachie Whitfield
GWS’ star Lachie Whitfield was instrumental in the Giants crucial win over the Tigers.
Whitfield was huge during the third term in what proved to be a match defining quarter for the home side.
The classy half-back broke the game open with a stunning 15 possession quarter which equalled his career best for disposals in a single term.
In the end, the 23-year-old collected a game high 35 disposals, 12 marks, six defensive rebounds and five inside 50’s to steer the Giants to a famous win.
What’s next?
Richmond are back on the Friday night stage when they face an improved St Kilda at Etihad Stadium. GWS face another tough assignment when they take on Port Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval next Sunday twilight.
Full Score
GWS: 4.3, 7.6, 10.10, 11.13.79
Richmond: 2.6, 6.10, 6.15, 10.17.77
GOALS
GWS: Langdon 3, Kelly 2, Taranto 2, Greene 2, Griffen, Coniglio,
Richmond: Rioli 3, Riewoldt 2, Caddy, Martin, Prestia, Nankervis, Short
BEST
GWS: Whitfield, Ward, Coniglio, Shaw, Shiel, Taranto, Langdon
Richmond: Martin, Ellis, Prestia, Rioli, Lambert, Short
INJURIES
GWS: Nil
Richmond: Nil
Reports: Nil