The Cats had plenty of opportunities but kicked 9.18, inaccuracy in front of goal and ball use focal points that could create some movement between the AFL and VFL sides.

Jed Bews was the best in the Geelong VFL’s loss, notching up 17 disposals and five tackles. The defender played 16 AFL games last year but has so far struggled to crack into the team.

Another experienced youngster in George Horlin-Smith is also putting his hand up, the midfielder earning 28 disposals and nine clearances in the VFL.

Young forward Shane Kersten was a late withdrawal from the game against Essendon with a calf injury, with Scott hopeful it was only a minor complaint and he would be available this weekend.

Small forward Lincoln McCarthy was rested last weekend in an attempt to manage his workload, but given the lacklustre result in front of goal, coach Chris Scott may look to bring him straight back in.

Veteran defender Corey Enright was another player to miss the game against Essendon after being ‘managed.’

Barring injury, he will be a certain inclusion for this weekend's clash.

Geelong’s VFL side had a few players make their returns from injury last weekend, most notably Nathan Vardy, but they are likely to spend another week in the reserves.