Trade coup boosts Cats’ flag push

McIntosh has played just eight games in the past two seasons.

He was fifth in hitouts to advantage and in the top 10 in contested marks when he was injured in Round 7.

If he can reproduce that form, it will give the Cats exactly the sort of presence they need at the stoppages.

Rivers will help play the third tall’s role in the backline left vacant by Matthew Scarlett, providing support to Harry Taylor and Tom Lonergan.

The recruitment of McIntosh and Rivers clears the way for Geelong to finalise the rest of its list, and make some difficult calls on several players.

The Cats face the tough task of promoting or culling a handful of rookies, some of whom played senior football this season.

A new ruckman and defender could place pressure on the out-ofcontract Orren Stephenson and Tom Gillies.