On the back of three straight AFL wins, breaking into Geelong’s round four line-up is going to be tough – but we take a look at which players are putting their hand up to be in the selection mix this week.
Returning trio
Cam Guthrie
Edging closer to a return to football after a calf injury has sidelined him for the early rounds of the season. When firing, Guthrie provides the Cats with a shutdown option in the midfield and plenty of dash around the ground. Could return via VFL given form of AFL team.
Zach Tuohy
Similar to Guthrie, the Irishman’s return date is edging closer. When fit Tuohy is an important member of Geelong’s 22 with his elite disposal and leadership.
Jack Henry
Picked up a hamstring injury in round two which saw him miss the Cats impressive road win in Adelaide. Has now played 24 AFL games and established himself as a key member of the ‘misfits’ with his ability to play on talls and smalls.
VFL’s top performers
Zach Guthrie (16 disposals at 94% efficiency, six marks & four rebound 50s)
Clearly the Cats’ standout player in the VFL season opener on Friday night. The 20-year-old was rock solid down back, taking numerous intercept marks while racking up 16 disposals.
James Parsons (18 disposals, eight score involvements & eight tackles)
He may have only collected 18 disposals, but Parsons looked a class above the opposition every time he found the football and used it well playing predominantly on-ball.
Sam Simpson (14 disposals, five inside 50s & three clearances)
Worked hard in the midfield, propelling the football inside 50 on five occasions. A silky mover, Simpson appears to have bulked up during the pre-season and provides selectors with another option who can play in attack and push up into the midfield.
Wylie Buzza (Two goals, five score involvements & four rebound 50s)
Was used at both ends of the ground in the Cats’ narrow VFL loss to Richmond. Started the game in attack and looked ominous, kicking two goals before being moved to the other end of the ground to help shut down a potent Tigers attack.
