Geelong’s VFL side has been beaten by a tough Richmond outfit on Saturday, falling to the Tigers 12.5 (77) to 18.18 (126).
The Cats started strongly with Sam Dobson kicking two early goals but the visitors’ lead was short lived as the Tigers piled on six first quarter goals.
The scoring slowed down in the second and third terms but the home side were able to maintain their lead, taking a 38-point advantage into the final change.
The visitors continued to fight in the final term but Richmond proved too strong, running out 49-point victors.
The Cats lacked composure and cost themselves the win with their turnovers, believes Cats coach Shane O’Bree.
“There are times to be daring and times to be a bit safer and be more direct and they got us on the rebound,” O’Bree said
“They had an unbelievable amount of goals from turnovers, nearly all their scores.”
The result was soured by injuries suffered to Tom Ruggles (AC) and Mark O’Connor (Ankle) in the first and final terms, respectively.
“(Ruggles) started well and to have one of your key defensive leaders go down early, it doesn’t help, which is disappointing for Rugs,” O’Bree said.
On a positive note, George Horlin-Smith was named the Cats’ best on the back of his 38 touches and 11 clearances.
“(Horlin-Smith) was really good around the stoppages and with his contested work, he tried hard all night, does what Horlo does well,” O’Bree said.
Jordan Cunico was also named amongst the best players, putting his hand up for a senior recall with 28 possessions and a goal.
“Once (Cunico) understood we needed him to take the game on, he wanted the ball and pressured around the contest, he showed us what he’s got with his assets,” O’Bree said.
Jackson Thurlow also pushed his case for an AFL call up with 26 disposals, 17 by foot and five clearances.
“Thurlow is definitely working on his game, the finishing touches he needs to make the most of his opportunities, his work rate tonight was pretty good.
“His asset is his kicking, he just needs to take the game on a bit more and get those kicks we need him to,” O’Bree said.
Sam Dobson also played strongly in his VFL return and showcased the goal kicking form he has shown at interchange club St. Mary’s in 2017.
After 32 goals in seven games for the Saints to start the year, Dobson kicked three on Saturday night and was lively whenever near the ball.
“(Dobson) came into the team, kicked a few goals and looked lively,” O’Bree said.
“He looked like he wanted the contest when we needed one.”
The VFL Cats will look to get back on the winners’ list next week when they face North Ballarat on Sunday.
VFL Round 9
Bendigo Bank Cats 12.5 (77) def. by Richmond 18.18 (126)
Goals: Dobson 3, Buzza 2, Thurlow 2, Hayball, Cunico, Horlin-Smith, Jones, Capiron
Best: Horlin-Smith, Cunico, Reid, Thurlow, Black, Abbott
Reports: Nil
Injuries: Ruggles (shoulder), O’Connor (ankle)
@ Punt Road Oval, Richmond
