Geelong’s lineup has undergone great change since its first flag of the century in 2007. One thing that hasn’t changed is its ability to stay in the top echelon of teams.
After 18 rounds Chris Scott’s men are third on the ladder; with a tough run home the only thing likely to deny them another top four finish.
The Cats have won their last four matches, but haven’t had it all their own way; Greater Western Sydney pushed them in a seven point game, the Bulldogs almost caused an upset a fortnight earlier, and Essendon was always in the game in Round 15 before falling by nine points.
Those close matches saw the doubters emerge yet again.
Geelong’s on-ball brigade in the spotlight.
Despite a dour struggle against the Giants, Joel Selwood and Steve Johnson again proved the match-winners. Having them firing come finals time will be vital, while a quiet month by Jimmy Bartel’s standards means little – he’s a proven performer on the big stage.
Any team with a key forward the quality of Tom Hawkins must be feared. He booted four goals when Geelong last met North in Round 10, and has booted two or more goals in his last ten outings.
After getting the job done on Majak Daw last time around, Mark Blicavs could also prove a significant inclusion.
The Cats will go in as favourites and with good reason; it was only eight weeks ago when a dominant first quarter effectively won the game against North at Simonds Stadium.
The Roos have struggled for consistency since, but Geelong has also been far from convincing.
With top four and top eight repercussions at stake, this looms as arguably the match of the round.
