Bulldogs land Tom Boyd as GWS blinks

The New Daily
Oct 15, 2014, updated Oct 15, 2014

Greater Western Sydney and the Western Bulldogs have agreed on a trade that sees Ryan Griffen and Tom Boyd swap clubs, the AFL has reported.

According to AFL.com.au the Giants received pick six and Griffen for Boyd, who was pick No.1 in last year’s AFL draft.

Boyd has reportedly been offered a seven-year contract by the Bulldogs.

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The trade came despite GWS president Dave Matthews saying on Monday: “We are sincere in what we say. For the avoidance of doubt Tom Boyd is not going to be traded.”

The Bulldogs’ hand was forced when skipper Griffen sensationally walked out of the club last week, prompting the departure of coach Brendan McCartney.

Matthews said the Giants had changed their position and decided to trade Boyd after reviewing a number of factors.

“First, the Bulldogs have made a revised and attractive offer which now includes their first draft pick (six), an elite player in Ryan Griffen and salary cap assistance in relation to his contract,” he said.

“Second, our coach Leon Cameron has consulted the leadership group and they have agreed they want a united and loyal playing group heading into an important season in 2015.

“Third, as a club we are proud to represent Western Sydney and Canberra and it’s critical that our players share that value. Clearly Tom doesn’t and the best course of action is for him to leave the club.

“We believe this is an excellent trade in the best interests of the club and gives us the best possible chance of achieving success in the coming seasons.

“It significantly strengthens our playing list and gives us picks 4, 6 and 7 in next month’s draft which can also be traded.

“We are delighted to have Ryan Griffen at the club. He is not only a great talent but a person with strong values and brings more experience and maturity to the list.”