As we enter this new series we choose to focus on players that otherwise may not get a mention, the unsung heroes or the breakout stars that you won’t hear about in the media all day. Without further ado, here is the first for the year:

Tim Taranto has had a tough time as a former No.2 draft pick for GWS, taking his time to bleed into a stacked midfield that contained some of the game’s biggest stars. His first season was marred by injury, but his second season he slowly found himself gaining more time and influence in GWS’ side. Now, with the absence of the departed Dylan Shiel upon them, Taranto has been trusted with a greater role, and he showed out against Essendon in the opener for 2019.

No doubt playing his best game in his young career so far, Taranto racked up 30 touches, 21 of them kicks, 10 tackles and added on 2 goals for his efforts, proving to be a massive factor in GWS’ resounding win over the Bombers. Throughout the game, Essendon simply couldn’t contain either one of GWS’ stars and were overran in the midfield, being beaten in all areas. Taranto played no small part in this, with his disposal being as damaging as can be, and his tackling ensuring his opposite numbers did not catch a break. A mature, explosive and versatile performance from one of the game’s young, emerging talents.

While other stars such as Stephen Coniglio, Lachie Whitfield and Jeremy Cameron typically steal the plaudits, as will Josh Kelly when he returns from injury, this game proved that Taranto is ready to step up, and deserves to be mentioned among some of the Giants’ best and brightest on the field.