Geelong has gone 5-0 for the first time since 2017 after dispatching hapless North Melbourne in a 75-point rout at the Cats’ GMHBA Stadium fortress.
The hosts were never threatened after kicking the first three goals of Sunday’s match, extending their lead at every break to win 21.13 (139) to 10.4 (64).
Superstar Jeremy Cameron snared six goals, making the most of Tom Hawkins’ absence after the veteran forward was managed out of the side just an hour before the first bounce.
Speedster Max Holmes was tremendous with two goals and 24 possessions, young tall Shannon Neale (three goals) had the best outing of his six-game career, and Brad Close slotted four majors.
Geelong shared the love with five multiple goal-kickers, as small forward Tyson Stengle was again lively with two goals after a welcome return to form in kicking four last week.
There were few bright spots for North following a 70-point thumping by the Brisbane Lions last week, but young forward Eddie Ford took his chances with an equal career-high three goals.
Star forward Nick Larkey kicked two goals from tough positions as he continued to perform to a high standard in a poorly-functioning team – possibly the AFL’s version of Allan Border making runs in the Australian cricket side of the 1980s.
Colby McKercher, North’s first selection in last year’s draft, was subbed out at quarter-time after a hit to the ribs in the first term.
When they last won the first five games of a season seven years ago, Geelong made a preliminary final before losing to Adelaide.
After playing just one finalist from last year so far this season, Geelong will face a far sterner test next Saturday night when they take on the resurgent Brisbane at the Gabba.
But with captain Patrick Dangerfield and Hawkins still to return, Cats fans can start dreaming of another potential premiership to add to their 2022 crown.
The Kangaroos will set themselves for a shot at their first win of the season when they face fellow strugglers Hawthorn next Sunday.
(C) AAP 2024
