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'Inconsistent' Cats out for AFL redemption

3 minute read

Chris Scott knows Geelong are inconsistent, but the Cats will attempt to begin a path back to AFL respectability when they tackle Melbourne on Sunday.

Cats head coach CHRIS SCOTT walks from the field prior to the First AFL Preliminary Final match between the Adelaide Crows and the Geelong Cats at Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia.
Cats head coach CHRIS SCOTT walks from the field prior to the First AFL Preliminary Final match between the Adelaide Crows and the Geelong Cats at Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia. Picture: Daniel Kalisz/Getty Images

Geelong coach Chris Scott is hoping the Cats can take the first step in shaking off their inconsistent tag when they face Melbourne on Sunday.

The Cats haven't won back-to-back AFL games since June 2019, frustrating Scott and Geelong supporters.

Scott declared his team has a "problem" following their rare defeat at GMHBA Stadium last week after a failed comeback against Carlton.

"Even the casual observer would look at the difference between the first three quarters and the last quarter and see the parts we need to address - and that's completely on us," Scott said.

"Since the midway part of last year we've been very good in parts and very poor in parts, which by definition means you're an inconsistent team - and a mediocre one.

"We're working very hard to confront it."

They will battle a Demons side having had their round three clash with Essendon postponed because of Conor McKenna's COVID-19 test saga.

Geelong's first game at the MCG this season provides an opportunity for a number of players to redeem themselves.

Ruckman Rhys Stanley (knee) is the Cats only forced change, as they persist with former St Kilda star Jack Steven after his underwhelming debut for Geelong.

Young midfielder Brandan Parfitt is a welcome inclusion after a minor injury, while Jake Kolodjashni will provide stability in defence in his first game of 2020.

Darcy Fort comes into help with ruck duties, although Esava Ratugolea will be there for support.

"We've always thought Esava would grow into at least having the option up his sleeve of being a ruckman," Scott said.

"He's such a component forward. He's a developing player in every sense of the word."

Demons coach Simon Goodwin has wielded the axe, despite Melbourne's last outing yielding a win against Carlton on June 13.

There's also some notable outs, with former captain Nathan Jones, speedy defender Neville Jetta and high-profile recruit Harley Bennell making way.

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