The Bendigo Bank Cats have taken a tough loss to the struggling Coburg Lions, continuing a run of seven straight losses.
The final score read 5.9 (39) to 12.11 (83) as the Lions ran out 44-point winners despite the strong form of AFL-listed Cats Nick Stevens and Sam Simpson.
Stevens showed his ability to gather the footy (27 disposals) while Jye Chalcraft (18 disposals, 8 clearances) worked hard through the contest and across the ground.
Sam Simpson (25 disposals, 8 clearances) put in a good effort as he gradually works towards a senior spot playing off half-back and through stoppages.
From the VFL-listed players co-captain Matt Ling (23 disposals, eight marks) can hold his head high after some quality work across half-back and up the wing, while Angus Byrne also performed strongly.
Meanwhile Zach Zdybel made his return to VFL footy and kicked a goal after being injured during the pre-season and earning his spot back in the side.
The loss rules out any hope of Geelong having a crack at playing finals with just three games left in the Smithy’s 2022 VFL season.
With a strong breeze making life difficult and generating plenty of boundary throw-ins, Coburg got off to a hot start and made the most of the wind at their back.
Unfortunately, even with the breeze, the Cats had a lot of trouble getting any momentum and decent transition throughout the match.
Geelong’s pressure was a big issue as Coburg amassed 105 marks to 58 from consecutive uncontested possessions and intercepts.
Geelong will now look ahead to their match against Sandringham at GMHBA Stadium, on August 7 at 1:05pm.
VFL Round 19
Geelong Cats 5.9 (39) def by Coburg 12.11 (83)
GOALS: Narkle 2, F. Evans, J. Evans, Zdybel 1
BEST: Ling, Byrne, Simpson, F. Evans, Stevens, Dahlhaus
REPORTS: Nil
INJURIES: Neale (Concussion)
@ Mars Stadium