EAGLES’ SECRET PLOT
Cats’ mids can expect attention ... as Simpson plays guessing game
WEST Coast coach Adam Simpson will keep Geelong guessing on his plans for the Cats’ ‘big three’.
But he conceded the Cats’ power-packed midfield would receive “some attention”, determined to avoid getting involved in a high-scoring shootout.
Gary Ablett, Patrick Dangerfield and Joel Selwood were all prolific in Monday’s one-point loss to Hawthorn, combining for 95 disposals and four goals.
The star trio loom as Geelong’s trump cards tomorrow when they take on West Coast at Optus Stadium.
But while the Cats are the thirdhighest scorer in the AFL after two rounds, they have also registered the least amount of inside 50s — an alarming disparity for a side boasting the best midfield trio in the game.
Simpson opted against recalling tagger Mark Hutchings for a runwith role. Elliot Yeo looms as the main shutdown option, especially if Dangerfield spends time up forward.
Geelong also left Scott Selwood out of its final 22 yesterday, but the defensive midfielder will fly with the side today and is every chance to come in as an emergency.
Simpson yesterday offered little when asked which of Geelong’s ‘big three’ he would target with a tagger.
“I won’t be giving away too much, but we need to give them some attention,” Simpson said.
“Look, if this was match committee, we’d be having a great conversation. I reckon a bit might get out if we discuss that.
“We’ve got to put some things in place and talk through some scenarios.
“Hopefully, we’ll keep the Cats guessing going into Sunday.”