Geelong’s VFL side has come up short in their first practice match of 2016, falling to an impressive Essendon VFL outfit 6.8 (44) to 9.7 (61).
Both sides started slowly at the True Value Solar Centre as players adjusted to their new surroundings. Despite a strong first half from Tom Atkins and Ryan Williams, the Cats trailed by two points at the main break.
A scrappy third term by the Cats gave the home side numerous chances on goal as they extended their lead to 13 points at the final change.
The visitors fought hard in the final term but were never able to claw back the lead as the Bombers ran away with a 17-point victory.
With numerous members of the Cats lineup playing together for the first time, inexperience saw the Bankers make some costly mistakes throughout the game.
Despite facing experienced AFL players Matthew Leuenberger, Nathan Grima and Courtenay Dempsey, many young Cats showed promise when under pressure.
VFL newcomer Tom Stewart was amongst the Cats’ best, showing maturity and composure off half-back. He was seldom beaten by his opponent and propelled the Cats forward on many occasions.
Stewart finished the match with 17 disposals, five marks and seven rebound 50s in an impressive VFL debut.
The emerging Tom Atkins also fought hard and looks likely to back up an impressive 2015 season, racking up team-high 18 possessions, 12 of which were contested, six tackles and a goal.
AFL listed players Jed Bews and Michael Luxford highlighted their class during the match, showing poise with ball in hand and providing leadership throughout the day.
Bews was a calm influence over a backline often under pressure, his composure helping the Cats get out of trouble on numerous occasions.
The 22-year-old totaled 17 disposals, 14 by foot, four marks and three inside 50s in an impressive performance.
Draftees Ryan Gardner, Wylie Buzza and Jock Cornell all had their first taste of football in Cats colours and each showed glimpses of why the Cats put faith in them during the AFL and rookie drafts.
The Cats will look to bounce back, as they take on Richmond’s VFL side in their second practice match next week. The game will be contested under lights on Friday night at Punt Road Oval.
VFL Practice Match 1 - Bendigo Bank Cats 6.7 (43) def. by Essendon VFL 9.6 (60)
Goals: Atkins, Tudor, Dobson, Robinson, Buzza, O’Leary
Best: Stewart, Atkins, Bews, Luxford, Haintz
Reports: Nil
Injuries: Nil
@ True Value Solar Centre, Tullamarine
