A high-intensity game from Geelong’s VFL side against the AFL’s Academy Squad saw a one-sided match led by midfielder Sam Simpson.

Geelong won the hit out 22.17 (149) to 2.7 (19).

A relatively quiet first half by the Cats was followed by an absolute downpour of goals and quality inside 50 entries.

VFL-listed forwards Luke Smith and Jordan Johnston had a day out with four-goals each.

VFL: Jordan Johnston in action against the AFL Academy. Credit Arj Giese.

Meanwhile, Max Holmes and Quinton Narkle racked up the goal assists with some fantastic precision field kicking.

Sam Simpson was also a standout amongst the midfielders as he broke out of packs and showed off his class through the contest.

After a preseason riddled with injuries, it was a great opportunity for the young gun to stretch his legs.

“It was good to finally get a run around,” Simpson said.

“I’m going into my fifth year now so I know [my role] fairly well but it was just good to get out there with the Bankers boys today.”

GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 24: Blake Howes of the NAB AFL Academy and Stefan Okunbor of the Cats contest the ball during the match between the NAB AFL Academy and the Geelong Cats VFL side at GMHBA Stadium on April 24, 2021 in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/AFL Photos)

Stefan Okunbor got himself to a fair few centre bounces throughout the match after taking the reins in a few practice games as well.

It’s not just the fans that love his fast-paced game - Simpson was loving his work just as much.

“He makes me look like I’m on a treadmill running past,” Sam said.

“It’s great to run and carry with him...he’s exciting everywhere isn’t he?”

“We know how ruthless he is, he’s great like that.”

“Down back he can really shut down an opponent but then influence our attack from there.”

VFL: Quinton Narkle in action against the AFL Academy. Credit Arj Giese.

With a quality young midfield containing both AFL and VFL listed players, the Bankers are looking every bit the premiership contender their list suggests.

Geelong’s squad will face the Sydney Swans reserves side on Saturday 1 May 2.35pm in their first interstate match as part of the new-look league.

The match will played at Tramway Oval (Lakeside Oval) and be televised on Kayo.

Geelong  4.5 7.10 15.14 22.17 (149)
AFL Academy  1.2 1.4 2.6 2.7 (19)

Goals: Smith, Johnston (4), Holmes (3), Narkle, McLachlan (2), Brownless, Fort, Tsapatolis, Simpson, Okunbor, Chalcraft, M. Herbert (1)

Best: Smith, Johnston, Stevens, Constable, Simpson, Holmes

Reports: Nil

Injuries: Narkle (Ankle), De Koning (Back) 

@ GMHBA Stadium