Geelong’s VFL side has claimed their seventh consecutive win on Sunday, defeating Sandringham 14.12 (96) to 10.9 (69).

The match began with a goal-for-goal first term, with the two sides combining for ten majors in a high intensity quarter.

The Cats lifted their defensive pressure in the second term, restricting their opponents to a solitary behind whilst opening up a two-goal lead at the main break.

Despite kicking against the breeze in the third quarter, the Cats piled on four goals to maintain control heading in to the final term.

The home side was gallant in the last quarter but the Cats defended staunchly and ran out 27-points victors.

The win sees the Cats remain in the top four and puts them in a strong position with VFL finals on the horizon.

Cats coach Shane O’Bree, who coached his 50th VFL game on Sunday, was pleased with his side’s ability to come out with a win against a team that has been strong in the middle of the ground.

“Sandy are a very good team with their tackles, contested ball and stoppages and I think we nullified them a bit today,” O’Bree said.

The Cats dominated that area and the stoppages around the ground with Zac Smith (45 hitouts) and Ryan Abbott (26 hitouts) providing their on-ballers with first use.

Smith was one of the top players on the ground, kicking two goals and racking up 21 touches in a stellar display.

“Smith did more of the ruckwork, and the last two weeks since coming back, he has controlled the stoppages with his hits to advantage,” O’Bree said.

“(Smith’s) follow up work has been really good as well.”

Nakia Cockatoo made his return to football after a lengthy spell on the sidelines but the injury prone forward could not get through the match after injuring his knee in the first quarter.

Youngster Charlie Constable had a quality outing, racking up 36 touches to be amongst the best players.

The first-year Cat also totalled eight marks, four tackles and a goal in a promising performance.

Timm House, Jackson Thurlow and Lachie Henderson were pillars down back as the Cats played well defensively throughout the match.

VFL listed midfielders Jordan Keras, Tom Atkins and James Tsitas continued their strong form, leading by example for all four quarters.

Skipper Atkins was best on ground with 31 disposals and seven tackles, Tsitas kicked two goals from 27 touches whilst Keras finished with 34 possessions of his own.

“They have had a really good six weeks (Keras, Atkins, Tsitas),” O’Bree said.

“Tsitas as a defender has been really solid but got forward today and Tommy and Keras around the midfield are playing their role and getting a lot of the ball now.”

Stewart Crameri and Gryan Miers both kicked two goals whilst Ryan Gardner kicked one but was one of the top players on the ground with his forward pressure.

The Cats will look to continue their winning form next week when they take on the Casey Demons in an AFL curtain raiser at GMHBA Stadium.

VFL Round 15
Bendigo Bank Cats 14.12 (96) def. Sandringham 10.9 (69)
Goals: Smith, Miers, Crameri, Tsitas 2, Hayball, Constable, Gardner, Horlin-Smith, Abbott, Atkins
Best: Atkins, Constable, Gardner, Tsitas, Thurlow, House
Reports: Nil
Injuries: Floyd (Concussion), Cockatoo (Knee)
@ Trevor Barker Oval