For the first time in four seasons, GWS stand a real chance of making the top eight with three games remaining, but as they prepare for the eighth Sydney derby, they know history is hardly on their side.

A 63-point drubbing in their first AFL match in 2012 was not surprising, and since then the Giants' only victory over the red and whites came in round one last season, by a margin of 32 points.

Sydney are aware GWS have tasted success more this year (10 wins) than in their first three seasons (nine wins) combined, and midfielder Josh Kennedy says the Swans' goal of finishing inside the top four will not be an easy task.

" I feel like there's always been something to play for just with the rivalry that's been built up over time and wanting to have those bragging rights over each other," Kennedy said. "This one in the context of the season, certainly for us is really important.

"We want to get a top-four spot and we feel like we have to win every game from here on to get that. You know you're going to get a really tough contest when you play GWS ... they're getting better and better each year." 

Sydney's remaining two games against St Kilda and Gold Coast would suggest they are unlikely to drop any lower than where they are in fifth spot, but for Leon Cameron's Giants, another loss at the weekend will significantly dent their finals aspirations – something midfielder Ryan Griffen says is motivating the squad.

" It's a do-or-die game for us if we want to make finals," Griffen said. "I know all the young boys, they want to have their first finals appearance and we're looking to go out there and have a good result."

Both sides have lost key personnel in recent days. GWS will be without co-captain and defender Phil Davis (hamstring) for the rest of the season, while the Swans might be a little luckier with Luke Parker (broken leg) still optimistic of a return some time this year.

Despite the Giants' injury list – while not as worrying as that of Sydney's – Griffen was sure whoever covered Davis would do a solid job.

"He's been massive for us," Griffen said. "He's had his ups and downs over the years but he was playing some really consistent footy early for us, so for him to go down it hurts, but we'll have someone come in and cover him."

Kennedy was hopeful Sydney could use the finals experience of fellow midfielder Parker at some stage.

" It was pretty shattering, especially when he went down," Kennedy said. "But to get the news that it's only four to five weeks is really good for him and from the team's point of view, we can't dwell on it too much."