A GWS win against Gold Coast will go a long way to improving the mood at the Giants, says Brent Daniels, after the controversial ban handed out to Toby Bedford earlier this week.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Greater Western Sydney were pinged at the Tribunal when Bedford was handed a "harsh" three-match suspension for the tackle on Richmond's Tim Taranto that resulted in a concussion.
The Giants will appeal Bedford's sentence on Thursday night, but Daniels says the players are not letting the confusion surrounding the Tribunal's stance on tackling distract them.
"I think it's a harsh penalty for what it was, he's frustrated but not sure what will happen tonight (with the Tribunal)," said Daniels.
"But he'll be there to support us either way," ahead of their home clash against Gold Coast on Saturday.
In spite of all the lingering confusion that comes with the Tribunal's crackdown on tackling, Daniels says it's just something for the Giants to move on from and hopefully avoid repeating.
"You just got to play the game and unfortunately accidents do happen," he said.
"If someone does end up getting concussed from a tackle, it's a little bit unlucky (but) I don't think we, as players, can change the way we play."
Instead, they are focused on just one goal - winning.
But it will have to be without veteran Stephen Coniglio, who is still recovering from a shoulder injury in another blow.
"It's a week-by-week thing ... his shoulder is a little bit sore still," said Daniels.
"Hopefully we'll get him back in the next couple of weeks ... he's massively important for us.
"He's so supportive off the field as well, so even though he's not out there, he does have a big impact on the group."
Daniels says the team's versatility when it comes to interchanging positions is also a plus with players ready to step into any role.
"It would be great to have full strength out there but I don't think it's a massive thing for us ... we can get the job done," said Daniels, adding the Giants were preparing for the Suns to be at their best.
"They've shown that they're at their best (this season) ... they're a really good team."
The Suns are also gunning for a win on the road given their recent away losing streak heightened by losses to North Melbourne, Fremantle and St Kilda.
Australian Associated Press
