GEELONG has dropped a bombshell by ruling out exciting midfielder Steve Motlop from its round two clash against Fremantle for failing to meet the standards expected of Cats players.
 
Cats coach Chris Scott told the media on Thursday that the club was disappointed that disciplinary action was necessary for an off-field issue, but was pleased with how the 24-year-old had responded to the suspension.
 
Scott said the club had clear expectations of its players and Motlop wasn't able to meet them on this occasion.
 
He would therefore not play an AFL or VFL game this week.
 
Motlop was Geelong's best player in the club's 62-point loss to Hawthorn and his dash will be sorely missed in the crucial game at Simonds Stadium on Sunday against Fremantle.
 
"The team and Steve will pay a big penalty this week, but having said that we're really happy with the way Steve responded in the aftermath and we are really positive that this is going to have a good outcome for the whole club and importantly for Steve," Scott said. 
 
"We have clear expectations of our players and there is no grey area here.
 
"Steve has not been able to meet those on this occasion and to his credit he acknowledges it and he admits and he is prepared to take his right whack."
 
Motlop has played 69 games for the club and is one of the Cats' most promising players.
 
He comes out of contract at the end of the season.