Clark calls for fast start
RISING Star nominee Jordan Clark says Geelong is focused on starting games better as it turns its attention to the inform Western Bulldogs on Saturday.
The Cats met the Bulldogs in Round 9 but since then have won only one of its past five opening quarters.
The Dogs, meanwhile, have not lost a first quarter since they played Geelong that night at GMHBA Stadium.
Luke Beveridge’s men challenged the Cats for three quarters on that occasion and have been in reasonable form since their Round 12 bye, narrowly missing out on a win against Collingwood and defeating Carlton and Port Adelaide.
Clark acknowledged Geelong was aware of how well the Dogs played at Marvel Stadium and said it would be crucial to start well.
“Their previous form has been pretty good and they have beaten some pretty good sides,” he said.
“Last time we (played) them we weren’t on top of our game for the first half, so that has been a focus of ours.
“For the last couple of weeks we have started pretty slowly, so we have to come out (strong) because they are a very good team and they love playing on Marvel, so it is going to be a pretty good contest.”
Clark, who is ranked first among rising stars for bounces and metres gained, as well as second for inside-50s, has slotted seamlessly into his role on the wing since making the move out of defence and has played all bar one game in his first year at AFL level.
The 18-year-old said he had been encouraged by Geelong’s coaching staff to “take the game on” and continue to use his creativity and flair with the ball.
“What I’ve been told is to play to my strengths and back myself in and take the game on,” he said.
“Obviously with the run and carry, I’ve been told to do that, and to develop as an inside mid and those parts of my game.
“I can also still continue to get better at the wing role and learn that.”