Take a look at some of the key quotes from the 2016 AFL Finals launch in Sydney on Tuesday with co-captain Jarrad McVeigh and coach John Longmire.
Jarrad McVeigh
Playing the Giants at ANZ Stadium
“It is fantastic, I have played in some big finals before out at ANZ Stadium and it is definetly an exciting time. For both NSW teams to be involved and to make the top four is a huge effort. Over the coming weeks it will be a nerve racking time leading into the game, hopefully there is a big crowd out there and we aim to get the win.”
Respect for the Giants
“We respect them highly and they have a bunch of very good footballers. The last time we met them was the biggest derby we have had and they got hold of us then so this game in two weeks will be even bigger than that. We will be looking to get one back on them.”
Looking back on last derby
“We will do our research and homework over the coming weeks. We will look at that game because they taught us a lesson that game so we definitely have to improve on that. They have very skilled players and are a highly fit running team so we have to counter that but we will look to work them the other way also.”
On where the game is being played
“We finished on top of the ladder, top four is what we wanted at the start of the year so we get a double chance. I have played in a number of huge finals at ANZ Stadium so we can’t wait to get out there. We back our system in wherever we go and whoever we play. We are very familiar with the ground as we have played out there for ten years.”
Excitement ahead of the match
“It is going to be unbelievable once we get there on Saturday to see how many people will be there when we do run out. To see fans going crazy for both teams will be great to see and we just hope we can put on a good show.”
On the bye
“We understand that it is the week off, we don’t change too much. We will still train hard over the weekend to get ready for next week.”
John Longmire
Giants development this season
“It is not just this year, the Giants have been developing for quite a few years. Both teams last weekend had a similar games average so it is two teams going at it, top four who both deserve to be there and we are really looking forward to that opportunity.”
On rivalry with the Giants
“We understand that we have a broader role in New South Wales football and both teams really understand the challenges that the code has had up here for a long time We understand the excitement for the code up here at the moment is fantastic. To have two Sydney teams finish top four is fantastic for the code and both clubs really appreciate that. We know that appreciation will fall flat once the bounce of the ball happens next week, we look forward to that and I am sure the Giants are the same.”
The improvement in the Giants
“We knew that the Giants were coming at one hundred miles an hour. We have been able to see their development up close, we have been able to see their younger player come through and the experienced players that they have been able to recruit and the difference that has made to their team. It hasn’t come anytime sooner than what I expected and I absolutely expected the Giants to be as competitive as what they are at this point in time. They are going to be a real threat through this finals series.”
On an all Sydney final
“We are really excited by playing this game against the Giants. We understand how unique it is and how exciting it is for this city and state.
