Collingwood’s midfielder, Steele Sidebottom, says the fierce competition that the best teams bring is what pushes the Pies into top gear.
  
This is why Sidebottom believes the Pies have matched-up so well against the Cats since the 2011 Grand Final.

Last time the two teams met, the Cats just missed out by six-points which brought their seven game streak to a halt in Round 8 last year.

“I think the last few years we’ve had a pretty good record (over the Cats),” Sidebottom told www.collingwoodfc.com.au

Collingwood have shown two very contrasting performances, with a thumping 70-point loss to Fremantle, which was followed by a 20-point victory against the Swans at the SCG.

“I suppose from Round 1 to Round 2 there was a big difference in the way we played and we’re just looking to build on that again.”

This week the Cats will again present the Pies with all the ingredients they need for another enthralling clash.

“They’re the perfect opposition to go out against and keep trying to build on our performances,” Sidebottom said.  

“I think they’re one of those teams that are good to play against and everyone wants to play the best teams.

“And ever since I’ve been here Geelong has been one of the top couple of teams and everyone lives to play those teams.”

This Saturday night the Cats will meet the Pies for Round 3 at 7:40pm at the MCG.