The Cats Kick it Off

On a day which just might be one of the best of the year, I was up early to watch the Geelong Cats topple the Port Adelaide Power in the AFL Grand Final Rematch. While the Cats got out to a big early lead and lead by 31 at the half, the Power (who were the second best team in the competition last year) never quit and made it an interesting game down the stretch. Still, Geelong prevailed 15.15 (105) to 13.12 (96). {For those of you not down with the Footy, the first number is 6 point goals, the second is 1 point "behinds" and the third number is the total score}

I was pleased with much of what I saw from the Cats in the season opener, as they were playing with a few members of last year's title team missing. The Power had it all over the Cats in Ruck, as Geelong had to make due without either of their starting Ruckmen from last year's Grand Final. Port's Brendon Lade took advantage and had a big game in a losing effort. Despite the final margin only being 9, the cats could have easily won by 29, having had 4 kicks hit one of the center posts thus turning 6 pointers into 1 pointers. Cam Mooney in particular struggled with the post as he saw two of his own shots just barley scrape the goal on the way through.

In all, it was a great sign for Geelong as their past, present and future were all on display on the ground tonight. (read: this morning in the US). Young Tom Hawkins kicked a circus goal from an impossible angle and nearly had a high flying mark (pictured above) in the game. Not bad for a 19 year old, huh? Gary Ablett Jr. had another great all around game, and even shaved his head so he didn't look quite as ridiculous with his thinning hair.

My next footy fix will come this weekend as there are two games on Setanta, then I have to wait to see Geelong next Friday night. Until then, however, it's March Madness time, and Inky, XL, A Quarter and I are all doing battle. I'll update the stats tonight.