CATS BEAT LATE THREAT TO HOLD ON TO TOP SPOT
GEELONG will not lose sight of the bigger picture despite being in pole position to challenge for a VFLW premiership this season.
The unbeaten Cats retained their hold on top spot after grinding out a 15-point win over a potentially threatening Darebin team on Saturday.
With returning Anna Teague keeping league leading goalkicker Hannah Mouncey goalless and Mia-Rae Clifford the difference in attack, the Cats shut down the Falcons’ freewheeling style to win 4.7 (31) to 2.4 (16) at GMHBA Stadium.
Darebin’s only two goals came in the final quarter.
Geelong VFLW coach Paul Hood said his side knew it could make history this season, but also had to balance that against preparations for next year’s AFLW debut.
“We just know there’s a possibility to do something this year that hasn’t been done before for the Geelong VFLW side, and that’s maybe play a final and see how that goes — that’s the aim, that would be terrific,” Hood said.
“But on the other hand, we’re always balancing the preparation for AFLW as well, so we’ll continue to rotate the team, look at new players, make sure those who need a rest get a rest, all those things you need to do. It’s a bit of a juggling act. But whatever we do, it’s exciting to have these options open.”
Playing as a midfielder and the resting deep forward in a rotation with Richelle Cranston, Clifford showcased her fierce competitive instincts around the ball and then hurt Darebin by taking six marks inside forward 50 for the Cats, finishing with two goals.
The return of AFLW ruck Erin Hoare also proved timely for the Cats, allowing Maddy McMahon to play a different role around the ground.
“They were a good one-two punch, it’s exciting,” Hood said.
Geelong controlled the match for three quarters, even without AFLW signings Kate Darby (finger) and Renee Garing (back). While Darby is in line to return after this week’s bye, the Cats remain unsure of Garing’s immediate prospects as they continue to see how her injury responds to treatment and rest.
“It’s been a really solid start to the season,” Hood said.
“We’ve been fortunate. It feels like the teams we’ve played have been a bit more difficult each week and we’ve been able to build our way into the season.”