Geelong initially burst out of the blocks in surprisingly sunny conditions, piling on an impressive six goals while keeping Frankston goalless for much of the first term. The Cats’ domination in the first quarter was palpable as their composure, foot skills and contest work far eclipsed that of their opposition, reducing the Dolphins to a single major score at the 24 minute mark.
Geelong comfortably maintained the upper hand until the final term when the determined Dolphins managed to swing the momentum their way, collecting a cool 15 entries and 6 goals to Geelong’s 10 entries and 2 goals. The Cats’ play too was littered with errors as they provided Frankston with plenty of uncontested possession and marks from errant kicks, succumbing to fatigue and a reduced bench after losing Lang (managed) and Daniel Gibbs (hamstring).
Despite the final term slump, Coach Matthew Knights was pleased with the overall performance and development of the young playing group.
‘Parts of the game today were excellent in so many areas. The first ten or fifteen minutes of the match was outstanding; our contest work and the way we moved the ball was brilliant. Just the last quarter was a little bit disappointing in the sense that they were able to get some easy goals on the back of our turnovers.
‘When we fatigue as a team we just need to make sure that we use the ball efficiently and not open ourselves up for that counterattack like Frankston did in the last quarter. We’ve got a bit to work on still, but to have a ten goal win at this time of year is just what we needed.’
Knights was also quick to praise the work of youngsters Jordan Schroder, Billie Smedts and Jesse Stringer, who have each strung together a series of solid performances after returning from extended periods away with injury.
Midfielder Jordan Schroder was named best on ground after a dominant performance, bursting through packs with stunning speed and strength while attaining an impressive 29 disposals and 14 clearances.
Fleet footed speedster Billie Smedts was also among Geelong’s best, topping the disposal count with 32 and a further 9 marks after a strong performance in the backline, while Jesse Stringer was a clutch player through the centre with 27 disposals and 8 marks.
‘Stringer used the ball well today. He managed to find gaps and openings in the middle of the ground which was excellent. Schroder’s clearance work was amazing and Billie gave us a lot of ping off half back, particularly early in the game when we needed it.’
‘A couple of weeks ago Schrodes, Smedts and String probably weren’t in the best form to push for senior selection, but now I can say that they’ve had a couple of really top performances in the VFL and if they were required at AFL level, I think they’re ready to go.’ Knights said.
After sitting in 11th position mere weeks ago, Geelong now look set to cement their place within the 8 after two obliterating wins in successive matches. The Cats are perched precariously in 8th position, with any further wins or losses having the potential to eliminate them from finals or catapulting them into the top 4.
‘The proximity of the teams we’re playing in the last few weeks makes it interesting. It’s good for the players to have pressure on them though, to understand that each game is of high importance.
‘I think the big win today and the big win last week against Sandringham has established us a little bit, but in saying that the game against North Ballarat is crucial for us to keep ourselves in finals contention.’ Knights said.
Geelong’s VFL side will look to maintain their winning form against North Ballarat at Eureka Stadium next week, who currently sit in 6th place on the VFL ladder. Only a single win separates the two teams, so a victory for either team will be paramount in their bid for finals.
VFL - Bendigo Bank Cats 19.20-(134) def. Frankston Dolphins 10.13-(73).
Goals: Brown 4, Haintz, Walker, Hartman, Gibbs 2, Bews, McCarthy, Toohey, Gleeson, Hamling, Luxford, Hollmer.
Best: Schroder, Stringer, Brown, Gleeson, Smedts, Bews.
Injuries: Gibbs (h/string). Reports: Nil @ Simonds Stadium.
