ABLETT’S TIME TO SHINE

GEELONG’S investment in Gary Ablett will pay off in the elimination final against Melbourne, according to former St Kilda and North Melbourne midfielder Nick Dal Santo.

“The reason Gary Ablett was brought to the Cats was to get them into this position, and he is going to get judged on his finals performances,” Dal Santo said on SEN.

Ablett has had a solid season in his return to Geelong, averaging 29 disposals in 18 games.

The Little Master returns to finals action for the first time since Geelong’s 2010 preliminary final loss.

Cats captain Joel Selwood yesterday said Ablett was “definitely excited” about Friday night.

“It is really what he came back for to be honest,” Selwood said. “He wanted to come back to play finals footy so he gets the opportunity and he will be ready.”

Dal Santo said he thinks Ablett “will excel”.

“He will do things that will make us remember. This is where Gary Ablett will be worth every cent,” he said.

“He is 34 years of age and he is still plays the predominant amount of his football in the midfield for the Cats.”

The Cats’ season goes on the line at the MCG and Dal Santo says Ablett has a history of stepping up in the big games.

“I’ve had a look at some of Gary Ablett’s numbers, home-and-away compared to finals. He hasn’t played finals for a while. A lot of his numbers are better in finals, in big matches,” he said.

“For example, he averages more disposals, 10 more ranking points, contested possessions about the same, goals the same, assists the same, clearances up and tackles up.

“That’s Gary Ablett’s experience and what he has brought to finals.”