Geelong vs. Western Bulldogs – Qualifying Final 2 Match Review

Geelong – 14.12. (96)
Western Bulldogs – 12.10. (82)

Geelong has made the perfect start to its 2009 finals campaign with a victory over the Dogs at the MCG in front of 74,000 fans. The Cats came out in the first term full of fire and ran out to a 28 point lead at the first change. From here the Dogs struggled to ever get close enough to the Cats. As we all know the Dogs will always run out the game and they were able to do so getting within 14 points in the last term. The big names for the Cats all performed well while the Dogs will rue missed chances in the last term.

Big Moment

While the first quarter was where the match was won for the Cats, for me one of the biggest moments late in the game was Cameron Mooney’s big pack mark with only a few minutes remaining. He was surrounded by three Dog opponents but kept his eyes on the ball and took the grab. This gave the Cats control of the ball and this spelt the end of the Dog fight back.

Key Players for Geelong

Corey Enright – Could have sworn he brought his own ball to the game today especially in the first term having 17 disposals off half back. Ended the game with 35 disposals, 7 being contested, 2 clearances and a vital goal in the last term. Was the link up man for match of the day and was probably the games best player.

Gary Ablett – When it matters Ablett stands up and today was no exception. Gathered 31 disposals today including 7 contested possessions, 3 inside 50s, 7 clearances and 4 scoring assists. It was Ablett’s disposals today that impressed me, hit targets all day his efficiency was at 87% for the day.

Matthew Scarlett – Fantastic game from one of the best full backs going around. Scarlett had a wonderful game with 30 possessions for the game. Only had one goal kicked on him for the day. 8 contested possessions and 11 uncontested marks for the day. Another star Cat whose disposal was great today sitting at a staggering 93% effectiveness for the match.

Key Players for the Western Bulldogs

Lindsey Gilbee – Easily the best Dogs player for the day in my mind. 35 disposals with 6 being contested. Was one of only a few dogs above 80% for disposals efficiency for the day which really hurt them in the game. 4 inside 50s and a goal as well good all round game for Gilbee.

Jason Akermanis – Looked very dangerous especially during the second half of the match. The Cats did struggle to get this match up right for most of the day. Kicked 3 goals and 2 behinds out of his 19 disposals. Also was able to gather 4 clearances for the game.

Adam Cooney – Ever consistent Cooney had another good day with 28 possessions for the game. This included 8 contested, 5 clearances and 2 inside 50s for the game. Unfortunately did miss a couple of crucial goals one in the last term that does stick out. But overall a good day for Cooney.

Musings from the Match

• Pretty happy as a Cats supporter!! Predicted us to turn around last games result and win by 14 which we did.
• Geelong got the jump on the dogs in the first term and this is basically where the game was won for the Cats.
• The umpires really struggled to bounce the ball today with countless balls spraying to either side.
• The Cats efficiency was a key to the Cats win with the Cats who got a lot of the ball using it well. 5 players being in the 90% mark.
• The Dogs did have a lot of chances in the last term but just missed too many opportunities.
• The pressure from the Cats was great, were always close to the ball carrier which caused mistakes from the Dogs.
• The contested marking is a problem area for the Dogs only having 8 for the day compared to the Cats 20.
• Mooney was great with 12 marks and 3 goals; I would say he is trying to make up for last year.
• The Dogs were not far off the mark and still have a lot to give in 2009.

Where to now for both clubs?

The Dogs now await the winner of the clash between the Brisbane Lions and Carlton game. They will hope they can start better and continue on in September. For the Cats it’s a week off and a Preliminary final against the Crows, Saints or Pies. The Cats will benefit from the rest week with Steve Johnson and Max Rooke likely to return for the game. Signs are looking good for the Cats with all the big names hitting some good form and getting games under their belts.

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