Since the beginning of 2013 the Cats have jumped from one hurdle to another, and their next contest on Saturday night won't be any easier.

This week’s rivalry battle at the MCG will be another critical test for both Geelong and Collingwood, as they prepare to meet for the first time this year.

Collingwood will be desperate to add another win to their bow after experiencing their third loss on the weekend, and Geelong will do everything they can to fight for another win to keep their streak, especially against the enemy.

There has always been a strong rivalry between the two clubs, however Geelong’s Matthew Stokes says it’s a rivalry that comes with respect.

“I think the rivalry we’ve had is out of respect.”

Not only does Collingwood provide a tough obstacle, it’s the massive crowd they attract that creates the ultimate spectacle.

“The thing about playing Collingwood, you know there is going to be about 80,000 people at the game,” Stokes said.

“I think players, no matter what they say, get up playing against teams that you know are going to have a big crowd.”

According to Josh Hunt, Collingwood aren’t disliked they’re feared because of their high brand of football, and that’s what makes them the team to beat.

“They don’t boo people who are no good, they boo them because they don’t like them, they fear them and for us we match up well with them,” Hunt said.

Both teams share the same amount of respect for each other and believe strongly in the same goal, which is not to be defeated.

“I think we both have a healthy respect for each other but at the same time we hate losing to each other.”

The Cats crave big match ups and thrive on the intensity. This year is no different, they continue to lap up every opportunity to test themselves against the best.

“You can obviously compare Hawthorn and Collingwood, you never really have a blow out game,” Hunt said.

“It’s always tight, it’s always hard and there’s that neutral respect, we know that when we play both those sides it’s going to be the full four quarters, you’re not going to get much of a break.”

“I think that’s the way these young guys and the Geelong footy club like playing those hard and tough games, because that’s the way the players are taught to play.”