Geelong Assistant Coach James Kelly Addresses Media Ahead of Friday Night Clash
Geelong assistant coach James Kelly spoke to the media on behalf of Chris Scott ahead of the team's Friday night match against the Gold Coast Suns at GMHBA Stadium.
Team Performance
Kelly commented on Geelong's last two games, noting that while the team's progress has been reasonable, they missed execution in the final minutes of both matches. He highlighted improvement from the Carlton game to the Adelaide game in terms of contest and defense, but acknowledged scoring efficiency declined against Adelaide, crediting their defenders.
"Our contest and defense were better against Adelaide than Carlton, but we need to finish stronger."
Tom Stewart Injury
Kelly confirmed that Tom Stewart will miss a couple of weeks due to injury. Lawson Humphries is expected to return and fill Stewart's role in the defensive lineup.
Sam De Koning's Role
Kelly noted that Sam De Koning's recent ruck performance, including 11 clearances, has prompted the coaching staff to reconsider his role. De Koning has been used both in the ruck and as a defender, and his form gives the team confidence to deploy him in various positions.
Lessons from Opening Round
Kelly stated that while Geelong reviewed their Opening Round loss to Gold Coast, they are focusing more on their successful performance against the Suns in Round 14 or 15 of the previous season, where contest and defense were strong.
"We're looking more at how we beat them last year—our contest and defense were on point then."
Tyson Stengle
Kelly mentioned that the team is working through Tyson Stengle's availability over the next 24 hours. He noted Stengle's positive return to the club and his enjoyment of life, and expressed hope that football performance will follow.