It is touted as one of the hardest positions in football, but nobody plays the role of pressure small forward better than Brad Close, which was clearly evident in Geelong's victory over Melbourne.
An indifferent 2026 campaign saw the premiership Cat miss six weeks through the middle of the season, making four appearances at VFL level before earning a recall against St Kilda in Round 19, immediately making an impact in his first two games back.
After finishing with a season-high 17 disposals and five score involvements against the Saints, Close backed it up with another terrific performance against the Demons, collecting 16 disposals and five inside 50s, going at a very impressive 88% disposal efficiency.
While pressure has been a trademark of his game for an extensive period of time, it was Close's polish with ball in hand that was a telling factor on Friday night, equalling his career-high with four goal assists while also kicking a goal of his own.
It was part of an extraordinary night at the MCG as the Cats clinched a crucial victory in the context of their season, with Close noting how good it was to be back out on the big stage, under the bright lights at the MCG.
"It is always nice being back out on the 'G," Close told Cats Media.
"Another four points in a big game, it is very exciting. It is really enjoyable, it is a great team to be a part of.
"I spent a few weeks in the VFL which was also enjoyable, because we have such a great squad there.
"But it is always nice being back out on the big stage and the boys are playing some really exciting footy."
Close's return has been part of a different looking Geelong forward line over the past fortnight, but each player has performed strongly to help the Cats clinch consecutive victories.
Shannon Neale led the way against the Demons with five goals, but was well supported by Ollie Henry and Oli Wiltshire, while Jay Polkinghorne has also impressed in his first two games at the elite level.
It has provided an excellent combination with small forwards like Gryan Miers, Shaun Mannagh and Close, with the latter noting how important it is to have multiple avenues to goal.
"'Scratch' was massive, I guess with 'Jezza' out he is providing a big presence down there," Close said.
"Then Ollie Henry kicks four, Oli Wiltshire kicks three and Shaunny [Mannagh] was palming them off.
"It is really nice to be a part of that, when everyone is getting a good touch of the footy."
With a short turnaround to Round 21, attention quickly turns to Thursday night's blockbuster clash, as the Cats head back to the MCG to take on Collingwood in another important game.
Only one game separates fifth down to ninth on the ladder, with Geelong moving well within striking distance of the top six, only four rounds out from the end of the home and away season.
Heading into another pivotal match, Close called on all Geelong fans to show their support this week as the Cats try to clinch their third consecutive victory on Thursday.
"Obviously like I said, we love playing here at the 'G," Close said.
"It is going to be a big crowd next week, so if we can get some more blue in the crowd than the black and white, it will be massive for us.
"Hopefully we can play some good footy again next week."
