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Giants dominate AFL draft

Reigning premiers Geelong pulled one of the surprise moves of AFL draft but the night was dominated by new club Greater Western Sydney.

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Reigning premiers Geelong pulled one of the surprise moves of last night's AFL draft dominated by new club Greater Western Sydney.

The Cats chose 29-year-old Orren Stephenson from VFL club the North Ballarat Roosters to help fill the gap left by retired triple-premiership ruckman Brad Ottens.

As designed, the Giants had most early picks and gained 14 recruits.

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The first three picks from the nation's most talented teenagers were forward Jonathon Patton and midfielders Stephen Coniglio and Dom Tyson.

18-year-old forward Patton says he's ready to deal with the pressure that comes with being the AFL's number one draft pick at Greater Western Sydney.

Patton expects a difficult year next season, but is confident his side will find on-field success soon after.

"It will take a bit longer for us to make a real mark in the AFL but I have no doubts that we'll be one of the top teams in a few years time."

The Giants also chose AFL-experienced players James McDonald and Sentanta O'Hailpin plus 18-year-old ruck prospect Tom Downie , who represented Australia in under-age basketball.

Two-time Coleman Medallist Brendan Fevola was overlooked in the draft, with December's rookie draft now looming as his unlikely last-ditch hope.


2 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AAP


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