Cats looking strong for Round 1 Roo clash

A STRONG pre-season outing against the Western Bulldogs has made the Geelong VFLW coaching staff’s job selecting a Round 1 side even tougher, knocking off the Bulldogs by 20 points on Saturday (March 11).

The Cats’ almost impenetrable defence was a standout, limiting the Bulldogs to just two majors across the four quarters, ultimately settling for the 6.2.38 to 2.6.18 win at Deakin University Sports Precinct.

Geelong limited shots at goal from the Bulldogs, however made the most of their opportunities in the forward line, kicking six goals straight to get the side over the line.

“It was a really accurate scoreline,” VFLW coach Elise Coventry said.

“Like we said with our dropped marks, we could’ve had a few other looks in the third quarter as well.

“What the forwards are able to achieve down there, to create space for one another and get some really good looks on goal, has been really good.

“And even then our midfielders coming in and supporting that too. It was good to see them get some score on the board.”

The Cats failed to come out of the contest unscathed, following a potential concussion for forward Cheryl DeGroot, coming off worse for wear in a clash on the wing in the third term.

Chloe Leonard and Melissa Bragg acted as a brick wall in the backline, halting the Dogs’ forward movement.

Analea McKee capitalised on her moments, kicking two first half goals, while Mia Skinner presented well, kicking 1.2 coupled with a goal assist.

Coventry said there will be several conversations to be had leading up to the Cats’ season opener against North Melbourne on March 25 at Deakin University, stating there are more than 21 footballers ready to make the squad.

“The challenge for us as a group for the whole year is to work out the right balance,” she added.

“Especially when we start to lose AFLW players to their pre-season; making sure that the whole group is ready to play at any time, because there’s opportunities that will pop up the whole way through.”

The Cats’ Round 1 encounter with the Roos kicks off at 3pm.