Eagles Wrestle It Back Before Losing It
West Coast had a great run through the middle of match before completely losing it mid-way through the second term. Geelong were far too classy, and a little lucky at times, but when you’re on, you’re on, and the Cats certainly were. With silky skills and excellent ball use, Geelong never let the Eagles near it as in the end they won comfortably and brilliantly.
GWS Prove Their Credentials
A flying start followed by a quick capitulation saw the Giants off to a turbulent opening. The match continually see-sawed with both sides taking the lead, Brisbane crucially so in the final term. Brett Daniels however had other ideas, kicking the vital goal in the last few minutes to put the Giants back in front. The win was all class and a fantastic performance from a stacked side that knows how to stand up to finals pressure. The Lions lost out this time around, but will be back better next year, and they should win some finals.
Cats Shake Shocker Starts
Geelong’s recent history of awful first quarters in finals was accentuated last week in their dismal effort against Collingwood. This week the Cats were sharp from the off, kicking five goals to one in the first term including the first three. Even when the Eagles had looked to have wrestled control back Geelong managed to defend outstandingly, not letting West Coast get points on the board. Next week against the Tigers Geelong will need to provide another great opening.
Time to say goodbye
After 346 games and four Premierships, Luke Hodge an absolute champion of our game has retired. We as a community are lucky to have players like Hodge, and although I’m not his biggest fan, he’s got mine and at the footballing world’s upmost respect. The Lions will be distraught to have bailed out in straight sets, and a player like Luke Hodge deserved better. Thanks Hodgey, you’ve been a star.
Much to look forward to
Preliminary Finals weekend is always one of the most anticipated of the sporting year as some of the best and most exciting footy is played in the prelims. Richmond and Collingwood hosting matches at the MCG look to be favourites, and Geelong and GWS have some work on their hands. Not only does the MCG provide a great home ground advantage, it also allows for plenty of fans to pack the ground. It’s difficult to see upsets happening this week, but I’m sure many fans will be cheering on the minnows against two goliaths.
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