Geelong great Alistair Lord's brilliant form in the centre made him a runaway winner of the prestigious Brownlow Medal in 1962. He could run all day and averaged a staggering 30 kicks a match in his unforgettable year with the Cats. Alistair played a valuable role in Geelong '63 premiership under legendary coach Bob Davis. He played 122 games and kicked 79 goals from '59 to '66 after being recruited from Port Campbell. Premiership Player Club president Jack Collins described Alistair as a champion footballer.

Jack remains mystified that Alistair wasn't named in Geelong's Team of the Century. "He would've been an automatic selection in my book," Jack said."Geelong appear to be back on track after losing its way earlier in the season. The comprehensive win over Fremantle at Subiaco - a venue which is a
tough test for any Victorian team - in the previous round was excellent.

"It was a long time coming, though, after the Cats struggled to get their game going after doing so well to win the NAB Cup pre-season competition.

"Geelong has a talented forward-line and the physical play of Cameron Mooney at centre half-forward tops it off. Creative and classy half-forward flankers Gary Ablett and Paul Chapman have been terrific contributors and they will need to play well if the Cats are to perform well against league leaders Adelaide at AAMI Stadium this Sunday.

"Geelong need to make the most of every opportunity in attack as the Crows
boast the meanest back-line in the competition.

"Versatile big-man Brad Ottens has been a big contributor since returning from injury and needs to play well.

"Captain Steven King needs to direct play from the centre bounces to ensure the onballers have an opportunity to cause some havoc. The result of the big gamewill probably come down to the battle that'll rage in the midfield.

"The back-line has been solid with Matthew Scarlett enjoying a fine year at full-back.

"It's going to be a tough test for the Cats, that's for sure.

"But Geelong is a very talented side and provding every player stands up and gives his all, I believe they are good enough to cause an upset against the premiership favourite."


Bob Davis is an absolute icon of his beloved Geelong Football Club.

"Geelong is on the improve and I'm confident they'll make the finals under coach Mark Thompson.
"But the Cats face a real challenge against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium this Sunday.

"It shapes as a pivotal game for them.

"They have plenty of talent, especially in the midfield where so many skilful players can be rotated.

"Geelong will need to be at its best to beat the Crows.

"The Cats have recaptured important confidence after beating Essendon and Fremantle in the past two games."


Billy Goggin was a champion rover for the Cats who played a starring role in the famous 1963 premiership. He later coached Footscray.

"I like the way Gary Ablett Junior goes about his football.

"He's a strong overhead mark for his size and is an excellent goalsneak.

"He never seems to get pushed off balance and keeps going even when the chips are down which helps lift his teammates.

"He is very quick and can cut the opposition to pieces when given any latitude.

"I believe Gary's best football is still in front of him - he's only going to get better as he plays more games for the Cats.

"He's a definite future leader of the club, but I'm sure that doesn't surprise anyone.

"The No. 29 is a beauty."