Standalone game vs Giants as season opener?

[R-1]

From an AFL.com.au article:

The Age reports that the new club is hoping to launch its inaugural AFL season with a stand-alone game on the vacant weekend before the start of the 2012 home and away season, which is typically on a Thursday night

The broadsheet reports: "The Giants and AFL are working on a plan that would launch the new club into the football-free weekend which immediately follows the NAB Cup grand final."

It is suggested the game "would be staged in the rugby league heartland of ANZ Stadium". Holmes confirmed the plan. It is expected the Giants would hope to play the Sydney Swans in the game.

[aardvark]

From an AFL.com.au article:

Why not? Starting the season with a big win is always good.

[ugg]

Good idea, I'm sick of Carlton smashing Richmond to open the season.

[Triple B]

I don't really like a stop/start start to the season myself, effectively getting a bye in Rd 2, but given it should be an easy win in the first few years, I'd run with it.

[Yuri H]

I'd definitely go. Fun to see a bit of history, and as aardvark said, a tidy win would be a boost to the spirits.

And I could bring my GWS cap and, when they kick a hopefully rare goal, switch it with my Swans hat and clap a bit. Then of course put the Swans gear back on and get on with the game.

[R-1]

That's not a bad idea and I might do likewise...

It'd also get one of our ANZ games out of the way.

[goswannie14]

Are they basing this on the fact that we will never get into the Practice Match Cup Grand Final?

Realistically though, it does sound like a good idea.

[MattW]

I don't like a stop/start start to the season either. I also don't like the AFL constantly fiddling with the schedule. I would much rather the draw be founded in equity and chance.

[dimelb]

Yeah, might work OK.
But I'd rather watch GWS play the ressies again.

[Jewels]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!

I have strategically planned a cruise for next year (with five other people who ALL had to fall into place with my football schedule) that sailed after about round three of the Knob cup, then had me back two days before the season opener!
I haven't missed a home game in ten years!!!! Damn you to hell AFL!!!!

[aardvark]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!

I have strategically planned a cruise for next year (with five other people who ALL had to fall into place with my football schedule) that sailed after about round three of the Knob cup, then had me back two days before the season opener!
I haven't missed a home game in ten years!!!! Damn you to hell AFL!!!!

Oops !!

[Triple B]

If the Giants have made the request, than it should be a Giants home game.

All good.....