GWS forward criticizes Magpie’s “really bizarre” pre-game act

GWS forward Brent Daniels has indicated to Collingwood’s Mason Cox that the big man would need to substantiate his off-field remarks by making an impact on the game following an eventful clash between the two teams on Saturday night.

Cox had publicly directed criticism towards the Giants during the offseason, setting the stage for an enticing Opening Round encounter to kick off the reigning premiers’ new season. However, the American struggled to perform in his team’s season opener, failing to register a single disposal in the first half of their defeat.

A pre-game incident, where Cox appeared to disrupt the Giants’ warm-up and possibly exacerbated tensions by colliding with GWS coach Shane Mumford, was described as “quite strange” by Daniels. Daniels suggested that Cox needed to validate such behavior with a strong performance on the field.

“Mason seems to enjoy making provocative statements to attract attention. He thrives on being in the spotlight,” Daniels remarked on The Sunday Footy Show.

“What he did before the game seemed rather odd, a bit of unnecessary theatrics, in my opinion. We pride ourselves on being a modest and driven team, so seeing that behavior wasn’t ideal. If you’re going to act like that, you should back it up with your performance on the field.

“We didn’t pay too much heed to it. His comments grab headlines, and that’s what he aims for, so we didn’t dwell on it too much.

“…’Mummy’ (Mumford) isn’t known for holding back, so we were fortunate he did this time.” Daniels was among the standout players for the Giants in their 32-point victory, scoring four goals from his 22 disposals against the Magpies.

"Mason likes to say things that get a bit of a headline, he likes the limelight, but what he did before the game I thought was really bizarre."

Brent Daniels wasn't impressed by Mason Cox's 'carry on' with Shane Mumford, saying it wasn't 'a good look'. #9AFLSFS | CH9 & 9Now pic.twitter.com/pqkaYbOJm1

— Footy on Nine (@FootyonNine) March 10, 2024

The dynamic Giant, along with fellow forwards Callum Brown and Jesse Hogan, accounted for 13 goals collectively, while young key forward Aaron Cadman also chipped in with a couple of majors.

With this win, the Giants find themselves in second place heading into Round 1, where they are set to take on North Melbourne at Engie Stadium.