Collingwood are off to a stellar start to the VFL season with an impressive win over Geelong on Saturday afternoon.
High leaping forward Ash Johnson was particularly strong, kicking four goals (to go with three behinds) with 16 disposals, and nine marks. His partnership up forward with Mason Cox proved too much to handle for the Cats' backline, Cox contributing three goals in a ruck / forward role.
Once again, the midfield duo of Lachlan Tardrew and Callum Brown were outstanding. Tardrew (26 disposals) and Brown (27 disposals) were dominant throughout the contest combining for 14 clearances. Tardrew continued his strong start to the season, adding a goal, 11 marks and six tackles to his game. It was Brown's tackling that was most impressive as the game wore on, finishing the game with 11. Reaping the benefits of a consistent preseason, Brown's performances in the VFL have been really promising; putting himself in a great position to be called up to the senior side.
Small forward Sam Fowler slotted two goals to take his tally to six for the season. His pressure up forward along side Cooper Murley, Tom Wilson, Jacob Booth and Trent Bianco was crucial as the Pies were able to pile on the score board pressure with momentum during the second quarter. Booth kicked two goals for the game, while Wilson kicked an important goal early in the final term to put the game out of reach for the Cats.
The key defensive line up of Michael Hartley, Will Kelly and Liam McMahon combined well throughout the afternoon, preventing the Geelong forwards from getting a clean run at the ball. In his first game for the Pies in nine years, Hartley played an important role as a leader in the back line. His ability to read the flight of the ball and launch the Pies back into attack was a pivotal aspect to how the game played out.
Youngsters Fin Macrae, Caleb Poulter, Aiden Begg, Arlo Draper and Isaac Chugg continue to gain confidence in what was a really positive performance from the young Pies. Macrae looked comfortable in the midfield, putting together a 23 disposal game with nine clearances. His contested ball work as improved significantly over the off season, while plenty of time in the gym as also helped.
Poulter owns the Glasshouse side wing at the AIA Centre, his running and lengthy left boot have been promising in the early stages of the season. Every week Poults looks to be gaining in experience and confidence; look for him to make a real play for a spot in the senior side soon.
Collingwood 15.10.100 defeated Geelong 11.12.78
Goals: Johnson 4, Cox 3, Booth 2, Fowler 2, Murley, Tardrew, Wellings, Wilson
Best: Brown, Tardrew, Johnson, Macrae, Wilson, Poulter
