Geelong’s VFL side has claimed a nail-biting victory in their round one clash with Werribee on Sunday, defeating the Tigers, 12.12 (84) to 11.14 (80).
A last gasp goal by Luke Kiel sealed the four-point win for the Cats.
The home side led for most of the day until the Tigers came clawing back in the final term to take the lead with only minutes remaining.
Goals to Wylie Buzza and Kiel within the final minute of play saw the Cats come away with a thrilling victory and the K-Rock Cup.
Cats coach Shane O’Bree was happy to get the win but was full of praise for the opposition after the match.
“Werribee were really good, their pressure and ability around the contest to win it and spread and get the ball forward was something our guys can learn from,” O’Bree said.
The coach believes that his players’ ability to stick to their structures in the tight final minutes allowed them to get the four points.
“When Buzza took that mark (and goaled), I felt we were coming and we just had to get the right structure from the centre bounce and we did that,” he said.
“Kiel kicked a really good goal in the end and that came from good structures.”
The Cats played with a host of tall players with Zac Smith, Ryan Abbott and Wylie Buzza all getting their chance to play in the ruck and up forward.
Scott Selwood took another step in his recovery, playing out the full match and finishing with 27 touches and four tackles.
Jordan Cunico continued his strong VFL form with 32 possessions to be amongst the best players.
“Jordan has had a really great last three weeks playing inside mid and outside mid and it is probably his work rate around the contest,” O’Bree said.
VFL listed players Campbell Floyd, Jackson McLachlan, Nathan Horbury and James Tsitas were also amongst the best.
Stewart Crameri played his best game in the hoops, kicking two goals from 16 possessions whilst draftees Charlie Constable (31 disposals) and Gryan Miers (two goals) also impressed.
Captain Tom Atkins once again led the side in tackles, finishing with 13 for the match.
The VFL Cats will have a week off next week before they take on Sandringham at GMHBA Stadium on April 15.
VFL Round 1 – Bendigo Bank Cats 12.12 (84) def. Werribee Tigers 11.14 (X)
Goals: Buzza, Black, Miers, Crameri, Kiel 2, Constable, Jones
Best: Floyd, J. Mclachlan, Cunico, S. Selwood, Horbury, Tsitas
Reports: Nil
Injuries: Nil @ Spring Creek Reserve, Torquay
