FINDING a balance between controlling the ball and attacking will be a key if Geelong is to upset the Brisbane Lions in Sunday’s AFLW clash at GFMHBA Stadium according to coach Paul Hood.
The Cats suffered a 16-point loss to Fremantle in the opening round clash last Sunday, with the lopsided inside 50 count against Hood’s team (48-13) ultimately proving to be their downfall.
Hood says Geelong will need to be brave with its ball use at times.
“We’re taking risks when we’re moving the ball slowly, too; running really hard and making sure we’re brave with our kicking,” he said.
“It’s not just taking risks. It’s understanding the times of the game when to go fast and when to go slow.
“We’re getting better at that every time we play.”
The Cats clash with a Lions team who were too good for reigning premier in Round 1, claiming a 13-point win.
“I think Brisbane played a fantastic game,” Hood said.
“They’re a team since their inception, in the years we were out, we were watching them really closely because we really admire the way they go about their work.
“They’re a tremendously competitive team that works really hard, and we’ve seen that in the AFLW since we’ve been in as well.
“We know we’ll be up for a fierce challenge.”
Geelong has added developing ruckman Rene Caris and key forward Maddie Boyd to its squad of 23, with the final 21 to be confirmed on Friday.
MEANWHILE, Lions forward Jessica Wuetschner’s ongoing recovery from a lightning strike has led to her being ruled out of Sunday’s match.
The 27-year-old was hit by lightning at the Port of Brisbane last month while at work as a stevedore.
Although she was cleared of physical injuries at the time and featured in the Lions’ season-opening upset win over Adelaide, the Lions announced on Thursday she wouldn’t face the Cats.
“The recovery process from a lightning strike is not straightforward, as the event itself is so rare,” Lions Women’s chief executive Breeanna Brock said.
“We will continue to work with our doctors and medical staff who are managing Jess’ recovery.”
Twitter: @tom_king79 with AAP
GEELONG (5th Conference A) vs. BRISBANE LIONS (1st Conference A)
GMHBA Stadium
Sunday, February 16
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