2009 NAB Cup Game Notes - Geelong Cats v Adelaide Crows

In their first clash since their shock loss in last year’s Grand Final to the Hawks, Geelong hosted the Crows at Telstra Dome in round 1 of the NAB Cup. The Cats were in no danger throughout the match and were much too strong for a battling Adelaide outfit, eventually winning 119-84. Gary Ablett Jr was the star - as he tends to be - despite playing barely more than a half of footy. Let’s take a closer look at some of the issues this game raised, both for the season’s outlook and for all you DT freaks.

For full match overviews, check out the reports from Herald Sun, Real Footy and AFL.com.au. Get your full match stats at AFL.com.au, and your AFL Dream Team scores at FanFooty.

If you thought Gary Ablett Jr might ease himself into the season - well you were wrong. He had 23 touches, kicked 4 goals including a supergoal, all while being tagged by Michael Doughty and spending much of the second half on the bench! Just when you think he can’t get better - maybe he has. With all the motivation from last year - no Brownlow, no Norm Smith, and no Premiership medallion - are we on the verge of seeing one of the great individual seasons of all time? Overboard? Maybe. But would you like to bet against it?

Fast gaining a reputation as a flat track bully, Matthew Stokes had a day out himself, with 30 touches to go along with 3 goals. He also has a bit to prove after a disappointing Grand Final day - affected by injury or not. We all know he can be damaging when the Cats are up and flying - can he take the next step and prove himself when all is not smooth sailing?

The rest of the super midfield looked in fine fettle - Joel Selwood had 24 touches despite being tagged by Robert Shirley … Jimmy Bartel had his usual lazy 30 possessions … Joel Corey picked up 29 himself. If anything they look set to improve on what they did last year - a scary thought.

Of the Geelong youngsters … Ryan Gamble was pretty good from FF kicking 4 goals … Simon Hogan was quite impressive with 19 touches and a goal - he could push for a spot in the 22 … Trent West was serviceable in the ruck but is still the clear 3rd stringer … Nathan Djerrkura showed a bit of life in limited time after half time.

Of the Crows, Chris Knights was clearly their best midfielder, gathering 23 touches with 8 marks. The Crows definitely need him to step up this year if they are to challenge for top 4, and he showed signs of being more damaging with his disposal in this outing.

Simon Goodwin was used in a half back quarterback style role, which was somewhat of a surprise considering many had tipped him to play more up forward this season. He had a lot of the ball but didn’t quite have the impact the Crows would hope he would from that position. Interesting to see if they persist with him in this role - if anything he might be a bit undersized compared to someone who plays it successfully such as Luke Hodge.

Scott Thompson has risen to be thought of as one of the elite players in the game, however there is still a doubt about him against the best, or on the big stage - in my opinion. He was handy at best but remains a huge key to the Crows chances this season.

Of the Adelaide youngsters … David Mackay finished the game with some good numbers but did get the majority in junk time … Andy Otten looks a real player - expect him to get more opportunities this year and could have quite an impact … Ivan Maric was alright in the ruck and continues to improve … boom forward Taylor Walker was matched on Matty Scarlett, got a goal from a free kick but was subbed at half time with a knee problem … Nick Gill did nothing to say he doesn’t deserve his spot in the McPhee All Stars … Jared Petrenko showed a bit of dash with 9 touches after being subbed on for the second half.

Dream Team Watch:

Gary Ablett Jr (495k) is maybe a better option than Bartel, for the sake of a few thousand? No one scores as quickly as Ablett can. He’s a walk up start for me - when Gary is your captain, times are good. (102)

Jimmy Bartel (501k) is by no means second fiddle however - he has shown over the last few seasons he’s one of, if not, the best DTer going around. Bit of a slow start dropped his price early last year - might be worth waiting to upgrade him? Wouldn’t blame you to take him straight up though, that’s for sure. (86)

Simon Hogan (86k) is definitely worth keeping an eye on - if he gets games you know the strength of the Geelong side means it’s near impossible for him not to get amongst the ball. Showed a bit tonight, but still - getting a game in this side is easier said than done. (75)

Paul Chapman (410k) is always a big candidate for your forward line, but has a history of injuries which may turn you away. He had a cheap run here but don’t let that alone turn you away - the Cats will just be managing him to get into the season spot on. (38)

Knights (369k) looks cemented in the lineup and you know he can score with the best of them - he’s definitely worth a look at his price for your midfield. (103)

Andy Otten (126k) isn’t exactly a bargain basement price so you might find better value elsewhere, but this kid looks to have what it takes. Craig doesn’t play a lot of kids and he had limited opportunity last year, but if he’s in round 1, you could do a lot worse than jump on this bandwagon. (64)

Graham Johncock (339k) ended last year in horrible fashion and kicked off this season in much the same fashion. Although he was tagged by Rooke, you would be a gamer man than me to forgive him that and pick him up. (39)