Geelong’s Sam De Koning is at an intriguing stage in his career as the Cats look for him to play in the ruck after they won a premiership with him playing as a deep defender. Out of contract and with the Suns showing interest, he needs to build into a consistent contributor. Sam Draper thrashed him in the hitouts during the third quarter, and it put the Bombers on the front foot.
Sam Draper ball over Tom Stewart.Credit: AFL Photos via Getty Images
Jack Bowes has been better than a handy pick-up for the Cats in the salary dump that landed Geelong a top-10 pick. He can play anywhere, but his centre bounce clearances were a feature of his game against the Bombers. If he can add that to his arsenal he will lift Geelong to new heights. Elijah Tsatas also picked up 31 touches.
Expert’s view
Essendon’s ability to defend the ground was good early in the game but began to fall away once the Cats attacked in a more staggered formation as the game wore on with Max Holmes and Ollie Dempsey’s run troubling them. The Bombers’ ability to defend turnover remains a weakness, but their intent can’t be questioned, and their pressure was excellent in the final quarter.
Geelong have talent on every line and flexible players such as Mark Blicavs, Patrick Dangerfield and Cameron who can play multiple roles. Blicavs is such a valuable asset as he allows the Cats to protect specific areas of the ground and squeeze their opponents into one part of the ground. Their main consideration at this stage of the season was to get through the game unscathed.
Oliver Dempsey evades Kyle Langford.Credit: AFL Photos via Getty Images
What’s next?
Geelong opens the season at the Gabba against last year’s premiers, the Brisbane Lions, who defeated them in a classic preliminary final. Winning at the Gabba is tough, but the Cats have reason for confidence. Bailey Smith is a chance to return for the opening round and his energy will be important early.
Essendon are also involved in the opening round in Queensland with their opponent Gold Coast attempting to finally make finals this season. If the reset under Brad Scott is going to get off the ground in 2025 then a competitive performance is essential.
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