Coach Chris Scott is blaming “round-one rust” for Geelong’s uncharacteristic AFL loss to Collingwood.
The Cats have been overrun in Friday evening’s pulsating conflict on the MCG, conceding the final eight targets of the match to lose by 22 factors.
Vice-captain Tom Stewart is unlikely to play subsequent week after struggling a knee harm early within the match.
However Scott is assured that Sam De Koning (knee), Tyson Stengle (shoulder) and Tom Hawkins (calf, knee) can be prepared for subsequent Thursday evening’s sport towards Carlton.
Geelong regarded on the verge of breaking the sport open a number of instances earlier than Collingwood took management.
The Cats led by as a lot as 22 factors within the third time period, however left the gate open.
“There was a little bit of round-one rust,” Scott stated
“If you cannot roll with the punches in spherical one, you are going to have a very irritating yr as a training group.
“I did not go into this sport pondering we’re one of the best crew within the comp.
“I knew we might have enchancment in us.
Scott stated a number of gamers weren’t at their finest and they’re set to regain a number of gamers, with former Gold Coast participant Jack Bowes poised to make his Cats debut subsequent week after lacking Friday evening’s conflict.
However Scott doesn’t anticipate Stewart to be accessible.
“I’d be stunned if he performs subsequent week, however past that it is laborious to say,” he stated.
Former Collingwood participant Ollie Henry had an eventful debut for the Cats, with Magpies followers booing him all through the match.
Henry put his palms to his ears as a gesture again to the Collingwood followers when he kicked a objective, however shortly after he was mown down in an outstanding deal with from Magpies captain Darcy Moore to disclaim the Cats a sure objective.
“It is in all probability symbolic of the place he is at in his profession,” Scott stated.
“He does some actually, actually particular issues, and different elements, some refinement is required.
“Stuff occurs – behind closed doorways, I’d body it otherwise.”
Scott was rapt with Esava Ratugolea, who’s now enjoying completely as a key defender after struggling to discover a common place within the senior facet.
“That was a very huge win for us… I am enthusiastic about what he can do,” Scott stated.
