Footy can be a funny old game.

The Cats went in as hot favourites against Collingwood on Sunday, yet never really looked like getting the chocolates.

There's no doubt that the Magpies have now got the wood on Geelong, which is something the coaching staff and players will be desperate to address when the teams next meet at the MCG in round 22.

But it's far from all doom and gloom.

The Cats remain in a strong position, having won five of their first six games, and they still haven't played a match at the fortress that is Simonds Stadium.

The first of those games - the Friday night clash with the Western Bulldogs, which will feature the grand opening of the new Charles Brownlow Stand - is now just three weeks away.

Before then, however, the Cats face a tricky trip to the Gold Coast to play the Suns, then a Saturday night clash with Essendon at the MCG.

With Gary Ablett back in masterful form, the Suns present quite a challenge, and we can't help but ponder what changes might happen at the selection table this week.

Brandan Parfitt will definitely miss the clash after injuring his hamstring against the Pies, while the likes of Daniel Menzel, James Parsons, Rhys Stanley and Tom Ruggles are in the queue to take his place.

Who do you think deserves a call-up to take on Gold Coast?

Use the poll below to cast your vote.