1. Selfless Close willing to put his body on the line
Most of his hard work did not show up on the stat sheet, but Brad Close’s repeat efforts and one-percenters played a vital role in Geelong’s win over Adelaide.
The highlight of Close’s performance came in the final play of the game, where he held out Jeremy Cameron’s opponent to give the spearhead an unimpeded run at the footy.
Cameron ran back with the flight, took the mark and booted the game-sealing goal, which was all set up on the back of Close’s tough, selfless work to clear a path.
Repeat efforts were also an asset of Close’s performance, often pursuing and pressuring two or three opponents as the Crows tried to exit their defensive 50.
Close has put together a brilliant 2024 campaign, hitting the scoreboard in 18 of his 20 games this season, while also giving away 18 goal assists.
2. Tanner Bruhn Brilliance
A big factor in Geelong’s midfield dominance was the performance of Tanner Bruhn, who put together a terrific display against the Crows.
Bruhn collected 23 disposals and eight clearances on Saturday, including a game-high five centre clearances to help the Cats gain ascendancy around stoppages.
The young gun booted a goal in third quarter, dished off another goal assist and added six involvements to also be influential in the forward half.
Bruhn’s use of the football was also a highlight, going at a very handy 74% disposal efficiency while rarely wasting a possession.
After making his return from a scaphoid fracture the previous week against North Melbourne, Bruhn has looked very comfortable back in the starting midfield.
The performance against Adelaide adds to a stellar year from the young onballer, averaging a career high 19 disposals and six clearances per game in 2024.
3. Super Shaun Mannagh
Mannagh did a little bit of everything on Saturday afternoon, booting two goals from 17 disposals while also pushing forward to win five clearances in a stellar performance.
Spending more time higher up the ground, Mannagh also recorded six inside 50s and six score involvements to further add to his brilliant display.
Mannagh has been a key contributor over the past five weeks since returning to the side, averaging 16 disposals, four tackles and a goal per game.
