Geelong’s VFL side secured a top four spot on Saturday, comfortably defeating Coburg 20.9 (129) to 7.6 (48).

In windy conditions, the Cats were able to keep the gallant Lions at arm’s length for most of the day.

The match started with an even first term before the Cats looked to Stewart Crameri, who kicked four first half goals, to give the visitors a 28-point lead at the main break.

The Cats were deadly accurate in front of goal during the third term and increased their lead to 55 points by three quarter time.

The final term belonged to fellow key forward Sam Dobson as the spearhead kicked three late goals to help the Cats to a huge 81-point win.

The victory sees the Cats lock in a top four spot and secure the all-important double chance.

Cats coach Shane O’Bree has been impressed with his side’s ability to continue winning and playing at a high level despite their frequently changing line-up.

“Today we had a different mix of players, had a different midfield group and another different forward structure as well,” O’Bree said.

“It is what it is with us, we have just got to get used to getting the guys playing together as quick as they can in the actual games.”

Stewart Crameri made his return from injury and had immediate impact, kicking four goals from 13 possessions whilst taking seven marks.

“When we got (Crameri) isolated deep, he was very crafty taking those marks and he looked dangerous.” O’Bree said.

Small forward Jackson McLachlan starred with three goals of his own from 28 disposals whilst fellow VFL listed star Tom Atkins also racked up 28 touches to be amongst the best.

“Jacko McLachlan went from forward to mid and in those midfield contests, he looked really lively,” O’Bree said.

After being left out of the AFL side, Quinton Narkle responded in the best possible way, racking up 34 touches and a goal.

Zach Guthrie also pushed his case for a senior recall, totalling 19 touches and four marks to be amongst the Cats’ best players.

With Ryan Abbott playing AFL and Wylie Buzza suffering an early injury in the match, Zac Smith rucked the majority of the contest and prospered.

Smith finished with a game-high 54 hitouts and also went forward to kick two goals from 17 possessions.

“Smithy’s ruck work was really good and, around the ground, he had some good follow up work and transition efforts,” O’Bree said.

Despite suffering a knock to the head, Gryan Miers had arguably his best game as a Cat, racking up 27 disposals, six marks, five tackles and a goal.

“Gryan played the sweeper role, impacted and got a lot of ball in his hands as well,” O’Bree said.

“To get more of the ball in his hands today, he will get a lot of confidence from that.”

VFL stalwart Luke Kiel played his 100th VFL match and collected 16 possessions.

The VFL Cats will look to continue their winning form next week when they travel to Box Hill for their final home and away clash of 2018.


VFL Round 20 - Bendigo Bank Cats 20.9 (129) def. Coburg 7.6 (48)
Goals: Crameri 4, J.McLachlan, Dobson 3, Smith, Gardner 2, Constable, Miers, Simpson, Jones, Keras, Narkle
Best: J.McLachlan, Smith, Guthrie, Miers, Atkins, McMullan
Reports: Tsitas (Rough Conduct)
Injuries: Buzza (Foot), Floyd (Ankle)
@ Piranha Park, Coburg