Coach Chris Scott is blaming “round-one rust” for Geelong’s uncharacteristic AFL loss to Collingwood.
The Cats have been overrun in Friday night time’s pulsating conflict on the MCG, conceding the final eight objectives of the match to lose by 22 factors.
Vice-captain Tom Stewart is unlikely to play subsequent week after struggling a knee damage early within the match.
But Scott is assured that Sam De Koning (knee), Tyson Stengle (shoulder) and Tom Hawkins (calf, knee) can be prepared for subsequent Thursday night time’s recreation in opposition to Carlton.
Geelong appeared on the verge of breaking the sport open a number of instances earlier than Collingwood took management.
The Cats led by as a lot as 22 factors within the third time period, however left the gate open.
“There was a bit of round-one rust,” Scott stated
“If you can’t roll with the punches in round one, you’re going to have a really frustrating year as a coaching group.
“I did not go into this recreation pondering we’re one of the best staff within the comp.
“I knew we would have improvement in us.
Scott said several players were not at their best and they are set to regain several players, with former Gold Coast player Jack Bowes poised to make his Cats debut next week after missing Friday night’s clash.
But Scott does not expect Stewart to be available.
“I might be stunned if he performs subsequent week, however past that it is onerous to say,” he said.
Former Collingwood player Ollie Henry had an eventful debut for the Cats, with Magpies fans booing him throughout the match.
Henry put his hands to his ears as a gesture back to the Collingwood fans when he kicked a goal, but shortly after he was mown down in a superb tackle from Magpies captain Darcy Moore to deny the Cats a certain goal.
“It’s most likely symbolic of the place he is at in his profession,” Scott stated.
“He does some actually, actually particular issues, and different components, some refinement is required.
“Stuff happens – behind closed doors, I would frame it differently.”
Scott was rapt with Esava Ratugolea, who’s now taking part in completely as a key defender after struggling to discover a common place within the senior facet.
“That was a really big win for us … I’m excited about what he can do,” Scott stated.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
