Geelong’s VFL side has caused their second upset in as many weeks on Sunday, defeating Williamstown 10.3 (63) to 5.17 (47) at Burbank Oval.
After overcoming Box Hill at home in round 11 and a chance to join the top eight on offer, the Bankers came into the clash against the Seagulls with renewed confidence.
The Cats came out of the blocks strongly, kicking the first two goals of the match but it was their defensive pressure that was on show in the first term, limiting Williamstown’s chances to take a 10-point lead into quarter time.
The second quarter was another tightly contested term but efficiency in front of goal separated the two sides at half time.
The Cats kicked two goals to Williamstown’s six behinds to take a 17-point lead into the main break
Despite the increased pressure from Williamstown and a harsh breeze blowing across the ground, the Cats kicked three goals to the Seagulls’ two in the third term, to hold a 19-point advantage at the final change.
The Bankers held their lead for the majority of the final term but the home side kept coming and got within five points midway through the quarter.
The game looked like it would go down to the wire before Matthew Hayball and Darcy Lang kicked goals to seal a triumphant 16-point win.
The scoreboard showed the importance of converting shots on goal and Cats coach Shane O’Bree believes his side’s accuracy was a big factor in the win.
“You’ve got to make the most of your opportunities and I thought we did today,” O’Bree said
“(Williamstown) probably missed a few that they probably should have kicked that kept us in the game.”
The win sees the Bankers jump into the top eight and a realistic chance of playing finals is on the cards after the previous two wins.
“It’s pretty exciting that every week they’ve got better and more confident with the structures and the way they are playing their role,” O’Bree said.
Nakia Cockatoo made his return from a knee injury and got through the match unscathed, collecting 14 disposals, 11 by foot and six handball receives in limited game time.
“(Nakia) is that type of player that can impact the game, he only needs a few touches with his speed and he is very exciting when he gets up and running,” O’Bree said.
Playing his second gave in the VFL side this season, Darcy Lang looked a class above as he racked up 25 touches playing in the midfield.
“(Lang) put himself in spots to win the ball or halve the ball and he was pretty solid all day in that area,” O’Bree said.
Lang was amongst the Cats’ best as he notched up nine clearances, six tackles and two valuable goals, pushing his case for a senior recall.
“As the next guy in line, depending on the positions at AFL level, he has put himself in good stead today to get a game,” O’Bree said.
Despite conditions that aren’t suited for a key forward, Mitch Clark compiled another strong performance and O’Bree believes he is ready for an AFL return.
“Mitch has been with us for four weeks and with his attitude, he is a coach for us out on the ground and hopefully he gets a reward not too far away,” O’Bree said.
“We’ve got a guy that is AFL quality playing VFL that has put his hand up for selection, it is just a matter of how the team balances.”
Another Cat on the brink of an AFL berth is Sam Menegola, who had a successful outing with a game-high 28 possessions.
“(Sam) is doing everything right and it is just a matter of waiting for his opportunity at AFL level and when he gets it, he is a very driven guy and he will make the most of it,” O’Bree said.
The former Docker also racked up seven marks, six tackles, six clearances and eight inside 50s in one of his best performances since returning from injury.
The Bankers will have a much needed rest next week, as both Geelong’s AFL and VFL sides have the bye.
VFL Round 12 – Bendigo Bank Cats 10.3 (63) def. Williamstown 5.17 (47)
Goals: Lang 2, Hayball 2, Dobson 2, Cornell, Clark, Parsons, Luxford
Best: Edwards, Lang, Tsitas, Atkins, Lucey, Hickey
Injuries: House (shoulder)
Reports: Nil @ Burbank Oval, Williamstown.
