Cats possess a winning aura: Thompson - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

Cats possess a winning aura: Thompson

By Adam Cooper 09/08/2008 01:08:08 PM Comments (0)

Geelong coach Mark Thompson says he can sense his AFL side developing an aura about them, the same way the all-conquering Essendon of the mid 1980s did.

Thompson was delighted with the way his Cats refused to ease off full throttle and demolished bottom side Melbourne by 116 points at the MCG Friday night, to post an 18th win from 19 games this campaign.

After the win, he said he had witnessed the Cats' self-belief rise to a new level this season after their breakthrough premiership last year.

That was similar to the way the Bombers became a dominant force in 1985, after winning a drought-breaking flag the season before.

"I do remember we were a very confident team and that Essendon hadn't won a premiership in 19 years, which is a long time, and that by winning one (in 1984) it took a lot of pressure off everybody and everybody gained a lot of confidence," said Thompson, who played in both premierships.

"I can see a similar thing happening to our boys in our club."

With the minor premiership all but secured through Friday night's 24.13 (157) to 5.11 (41) drubbing, Thompson said the Cats would focus on perfecting their game ahead of the finals, in the coming games against Sydney, North Melbourne and West Coast.

"No matter who we are playing or the score, we just want to play a brand of footy and just stick to it," he said.

"This is the business end of the season and you just want to be in really consistent form with your decision making and how you play."

Geelong's biggest test this week could come during the week, as the match committee must decide who to omit from Friday night's side.

Half-forward Paul Chapman has overcome a hamstring injury and should be available to play the Swans, while defender Darren Milburn has served a one-game suspension.

Midfielder Brent Prismall has often been the unlucky player dropped back, but made a strong case for retention, with 32 disposals and three goals against the Demons.

"It will really be a hard match committee (meeting)," Thompson said.

In a further boost, half-back David Wojcinski is also nearing full fitness after overcoming an Achilles injury, and should play in the VFL next weekend.

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