SECOND-year player Josh Kelly has shone in Greater Western Sydney's final intra-club match before the Giants NAB Challenge opener against Gold Coast in Blacktown next Saturday.
His classy ball use was evident and he kicked a brilliant goal from the boundary in the second quarter. He played 18 games in 2014.
Kelly, 20, who was the No.2 pick in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft, was not the only player to demonstrate his talent in humid conditions at Blacktown Oval.
Midfielders Callan Ward, Adam Treloar, Dylan Shiel, Toby Greene, Ryan Griffen and Stephen Coniglio all showcased their ability at times.
The hit-out proved to coach Leon Cameron that players needed to be in form to earn a spot in the Giants midfield in 2015.
"It is really competitive for those midfield spots," Cameron told AFL.com.au "It's not just getting into the 22. It's how much midfield time can I get?"
Big-name recruit Griffen showed he is likely to take time to adjust to his new team although his talent remained obvious. He kicked a goal in the last quarter and his evasive skills are first class. He will be a huge asset for the team.
Cameron was also pleased with what he saw from the first-year players in the game.
"All of our first-year players had really good moments," Cameron said.
"We understand their moments are only little moments here or there because they don't have the capacity to absorb moment after moment but I was rapt with Pat McKenna, Jarrod Pickett, Jack Steele and Paul Ahern.
Ahern brought down Griffen in a brilliant tackle in the third quarter and kicked a goal while academy graduate Jack Steele looks advanced for a player in his first season.
Key defender Joel Patfull looked to have lost none of his poise in defence after crossing from the Brisbane Lions and shapes as an important acquisition for the young team. Experienced defender Heath Shaw will appreciate Patfull's presence in the back half of the ground.
Running defender Curtly Hampton, who has now played 46 games with the Giants, was very good out of defence showing balance and using the ball well.
Shane Mumford dominated in the air but Andrew Phillips looks ready to push hard for a spot in the ruck if the opportunity arises. He will be a good back-up for Mumford.
Rory Lobb copped a heavy knock before half time but recovered to play after the break.
Cameron said he expected to take a strong team into the clash against the Suns with 90 per cent of the list available for selection.
He said three or four players might begin their campaign a week later against Essendon but he was keen on getting the team's best 22 in place as soon as possible.
"We don't want to flirt with trying to find our best 22 in the last game," Cameron said.
"We want regulars playing the entire three NAB Challenge games so there is pressure on them to perform so they are ready to go round one."
The Giants will open their season against St Kilda at Etihad Stadium on April 5.
