GEELONG will host Hawthorn in their annual Easter Monday blockbuster at the MCG in Round 3.

Competition for spots is red-hot this week after the Cats recorded a one-point win against Brisbane and Geelong's VFL team defeated Port Melbourne by 74-points in a practice match.

Geelong will be forced into making at least one change with Gary Rohan accepting a two-match ban for striking.

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Rohan Accepts Striking Ban

Here are the players 'in the mix', presented by Vital Strength.

Mitch Duncan 

Got through Geelong's VFL practice match unscathed, playing a half of football. Likely to be discussed at match committee but could be given another run.

Sam Menegola

Missed last week's Round 2 win over Brisbane. Didn't feature in the VFL but could return this week if he can pass a fitness test this week.

Ben Jarvis

A like-for-like replacement for Gary Rohan with his ability to mark overhead and apply pressure inside 50. Is in good form after a four-goal haul on the weekend and may be given another opportunity at senior level after playing one AFL game against Richmond last season.

GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 11: Ben Jarvis of the Cats kicks during the round 17 AFL match between the Geelong Cats and the Richmond Tigers at Metricon Stadium on September 11, 2020 in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Matt Roberts/AFL Photos)

Josh Jenkins

Jenkins could be another alternative to replace Rohan inside 50 for the Cats. Kicked a match-winning five goals in the VFL practice match and was named in Geelong's best.

Brad Close

Close is the other option inside 50 for the Cats. He doesn't have the marking ability of Rohan but is the best of the contenders when it comes to applying pressure and helping retain the ball inside 50 for longer periods. Kicked four snags in the reserves and will be in the selection mix.

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Player Spotlight: Close

Brad Close's pressure around ball and handballs to advantage have earned him this weeks Player Spotlight. Presented by SC Technology group.

Max Holmes

Back-to-back best on ground performances in the VFL has put Max Holmes' name firmly in the mix to make his AFL debut in the near future. Was an emergency against the Lions and his run and carry could be an asset on the wide expanses at the MCG.

Max Holmes was named in Geelong's best. Credit Arj Giese.

Zach Guthrie

Another Cat on the fringes of the first team. Was the medial sub after playing in Geelong's Round 1 loss against Adelaide. Was named in the best for the Bankers and will be in the selection mix again this week.

Others in the mix

Quinton Narkle was an emergency on the weekend, while Nathan Kreuger and Darcy Fort were named in the best in the VFL.