An AFL record-breaker thrusts Toyo Tires into the spotlight.
The GIANTS’ clash with the Western Bulldogs drew 3.65 million viewers at its peak, making it the second most viewed AFL game in the sport’s history outside of a grand final.
The tight contest saw the AFL’s least likely contenders swap blows in pursuit of a grand final berth eventually going the way of the Bulldogs by margin of a single goal.
The Toyo Tires logo was fixed to the front of the GIANTS guernseys and, as a home final, was displayed proudly on fencing and big screens, beaming into living rooms and venues nationwide.
The game set a record attendance figure for Spotless Stadium, attracting 21,790 fans.
AFL chief Gillon McLachlan called the edge-of-your-seat showdown a game for the ages.
“I’d like to again thank our partners for their outstanding coverage of our game and Seven’s broadcasts have reached more fans than ever, while the Fox Footy ratings placed the Dogs-Giants game as the most-watched match in the channel’s history.”
Toyo Tires marketing manager Jose Angeles said the ratings put the brand front and centre.
“We are thrilled and proud to have been a part of this year’s epic journey. The GIANTS may have lost the game, but to get as far as they did is an incredible story, and the club is hungry for redemption.
“The increase in brand recall and response has been incredible. AFL fans have reacted to the brand’s involvement in the sport and GIANTS fans and members have really responded to our on-site activations and promotions. It’s been an incredible year.
“As for the grand final: it may be a cliche, but next year is only around the corner."
GIANTS CEO David Matthews said the GIANTS television audience increased by over 40 per cent in 2016, with membership passing 15,000 for the first time in the clubs history.
“While Saturday night was a disappointing result for our club and our fans, it was terrific to see so many people tuned in to watch the match across the country,” Mr Matthews said.
“We look forward to working with the AFL and our broadcast partners to ensure the GIANTS are well represented in the key time slots to maximise attendance and television viewership in 2017."
