Geelong look to solidify top four spot

GEELONG will travel up the highway to take on North Melbourne today (Saturday, July 26) and look to solidify its spot in the AFL top four.

The fourth-placed Cats face the 17th-placed Kangaroos at Marvel Stadium, Geelong’s first hit out under the roof since Round 2.

Geelong has had the wood over North Melbourne for some time, winning the past 13 clashes with an average margin of 70 points. The most recent matchup was in Round 20 last year, when the Cats cruised to a 40-point victory.

The Kangaroos are in the midst of a four-game losing streak, falling short to Sydney last weekend by 31 points despite being just two goals down at the final break.

Meanwhile, the Cats returned to the winners’ list at home against St Kilda, and while they were challenged in moments, they led all day and showed glimpses of their damaging best.

While each side’s ladder placement may indicate a dead rubber, it will be high-stakes footy for Geelong given a loss could see it drop to as low as eighth by the end of the round.

The Kangaroos will be well aware of Geelong star Tyson Stengle’s recent form against them, having kicked eight goals across their past two matchups.

Coleman Medal leader Jeremy Cameron will also certainly be on North Melbourne’s watch list, as will midfielder Bailey Smith, who will be looking to regain some form after being well below his best in his previous two games.

Geelong have struggled with handling dashing half backs this season, so youngster Colby McKercher will be one to watch for the Roos. The Tasmanian has averaged 30 touches in his past seven matches.

The game will begin tomorrow at 7.35pm.

Geelong’s VFL side will also play North Melbourne at Arden Street today.