In a massive pullback on the eve of the preliminary final, Collingwood superstar Jordan De Goey escaped suspension by the skin of his teeth. This came after a controversial act against Adelaide defender Josh Worrell. The Match Review Officer (MRO) has issued De Goey a $2,000 fine. This fine follows the recent rough conduct charge given to Nick Blakey which was deemed low impact. This decision leaves him as an option for the all-important qualifying final against Geelong next week. We hope to see you on the digital battlefield in a fortnight!
Brownlow medalist Lachie Neale makes his long awaited return from injury at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). He is hoping to get Brisbane back to the preliminary final. Neale’s presence is absolutely necessary for the reigning premiers. They have been confined under siege by Geelong, who’s come out like a monster with a bang to start this game.
De Goey’s Incident and Brisbane’s Lineup
De Goey’s recent conduct on and off the field has been dubious after he threw a bump on Worrell. The charge carried a potential one-game suspension, which would have seen him miss the all-important preliminary final. Rather than handing down a suspension, the MRO has decided to hit De Goey with a monetary fine, allowing him to be selected if fit.
Brisbane’s coach Chris Fagan made the strategic choice of starting both Neale and Will Ashcroft on the bench, a move that surprised many fans and analysts. Geelong have already shown their willingness to play an aggressive brand, as shown by their leading marks inside 50.
Geelong forward Charlie Cameron gets things going with a big mark and open goal. He has three disposals and two clearances to his name already today as he attempts to take advantage of his team’s early momentum.
“Our S&C staff were unbelievable, post-injury I was up and running after three or four days and along the way they’ve reassured me that the plan is going to work and that I’ll be ready to go,” – Lachie Neale
Neale’s excitement to get back on the court is a testament to the care and support he felt throughout his recovery journey. He told us last week that he is less fit now than at five or six weeks ago. He assuredly threw on top, “I’ve got a few tys in the legs.” His fitness levels will be important for how the match goes further into it.
Geelong’s Strong Start
As that opening quarter continues, you might hear Chris Scott, Geelong’s head coach, say that he’s happy with the way his team is playing. It’s a great start to the Cats day, taking a 2-0 lead immediately from the center bounce. They’re doing it for many reasons, but they’re obviously aiming to control the game early on.
Fellow Cat Max Holmes has had a big impact too, 3 disposals and 2 clearances. The brilliant implementation of their strategy pays dividends as they look to stretch Brisbane’s backline and apply the pressure.
Tyson Stengle locates Cameron again, doubling down on their devastating combination. Cameron’s knack for avoiding hand ball defenders and generating chances will loom large as the game develops.
Brisbane’s Tactical Decisions
Roar’s decision to leave important players such as Yojiro Takahagi and Scott Neville on the bench makes us question their tactics from the start. Their tireless work in the midfield helps them stay on fresh legs when it matters most. …and diversity as they take on a powerful opponent in this semifinal match.
Darcy Fort and Mark Blicavs dive in for the first ruck contest at a center bounce. That sets off a super rad, epic, major league showdown in the personal-space midfield! The results of these matchups will shape possession and game flow for the rest of the match as well.
Jhye Clark is running as Geelong’s sub, while Sam Marshall has that duty for Brisbane. This decision introduces layers of tactics for both teams as they react to the flow of the game.
