No More Flat-Track Bullies

Posted on May 5, 2016June 7, 2018 | Posted by Digby Beacham

Geelong v West Coast

Saturday, Simonds Stadium 12.10pm

West Coast coach Adam Simpson has made it known that he is not a fan of the term “flat-track bullies” being used to describe the Eagles. He may have a point considering West Coast advanced to the 2015 grand final. But there is no denying they are 0-2 away from Domain Stadium this year following defeats to Hawthorn and Sydney, extending an alarming road record, and tipped by bookmakers to lose to another rival premiership contender in this contest.

Geelong tuned up for this encounter with a 20-goal thrashing of Gold Coast, thanks in no small part to Patrick Dangerfield and Joel Selwood. Key forwards Tom Hawkins and Shane Kersten each bagged four goals courtesy of silver service, while Steven Motlop and Nakia Cockatoo added three apiece. The firepower Geelong have forward of centre will extend the Eagles, who need their midfielders to hold their ground — something they were unable to do against the Hawks and Swans.

An efficient display in front of goal wouldn’t hurt the Eagles either. West Coast have been inaccurate for too long now and must seize the bulk of opportunities when they present. Simonds Stadium can be a difficult venue for interstate sides to handle, but in a positive for the Eagles, its dimensions are extremely close to that of Domain Stadium. This is a match which isn’t beyond Simpson’s side, but the overall spread of talent in the Cats’ running division, and the fact that many of their on-ballers are in good form, tips the scales in the hosts’ favour.

VERDICT: Geelong by 14 points

1st Goal Scorer: Steven Motlop

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