Both sides showed plenty of intensity throughout the match, with many of the new and seasoned Cats showing a real drive to compete against the strong Essendon contingent, resulting in a match high 40-point margin at the beginning of the third.
While the Cats managed to maintain the upper hand for most of the match, a fierce comeback from the red and black saw Essendon take the lead for the first time in the final quarter. As the clocked ticked towards full time it became obvious that neither team would willingly admit defeat, as the crowd witnessed a continuous back and forth between the two arcs.
A sealing goal from South Barwon recruit Mitch Herbison put Geelong in front in the final minute to secure another victory for the Cats in their preseason campaign.
Academy Coach Paul Hood was suitably impressed with the boys’ relentless attitude throughout the match.
‘It was a good test against a strong line up and our boys stood up pretty well. It was really good to see the boys lift towards the end of the game to do what they needed to do and finish on the right side of the scoreboard.’
‘It was a really good learning opportunity, especially having to respond to the scenario of being a goal up and being a goal down, but the boys responded really well.’
Young guns George Horlin-Smith, Jackson Sheringham and Joel Hamling provided plenty of intensity through the midfield and up forward, creating opportunities against the strong Essendon defence.
New AFL recruits Darcy Lang and Michael Luxford also successfully donned the hoops for the first time yesterday, giving the crowd glimpses into their class and clean skills around the ball and impressing the coaches in their first game of VFL football.
‘Darcy had a great first run for the Cats with some really composed ball use and some good defensive efforts. Luxford too showed some glimpses of his potential today, particularly in his handballing, so we’re looking forward to working more with him.’
Jake Kolodjashnij also continued his stellar preseason with a strong game down back, providing plenty of composure when necessary and stemming the flow of the persistent Essendon onslaught.
The Cats will finish up their preseason with a final practice match against the Footscray Bulldogs next week, Saturday the 29th March 1pm at Simonds Stadium. Be sure to follow Geelong VFL (@GeelongVFL) on Twitter for updates during the week and live updates during the match.
Geelong 12.14 (86) defeated Essendon 11.17 (83)
Goals: George Horlin-Smith, Josh Walker, Mitch Herbison 2, Brad Hartman, Jackson Sheringham, Joel Hamling, Cameron Tudor, Daniel Measures, Daniel Gibbs
Best: Jackson Sheringham, Jake Kolodjashnij, Jed Bews, George Horlin-Smith, Chris Lynch, Fraser Fort
