Geelong’s Mid-Season Struggles and Solutions for Tom Stewart’s Tagging Issue

Seven rounds into the season, Geelong was the team everyone was chasing. Tom Stewart, a pivotal player for the Cats, has become a primary target for opposition teams determined to neutralize his impact. Mick McGuane analyzes Geelong’s current season and suggests strategies to help Stewart overcome the challenges of being heavily tagged.

Tom Stewart has long been one of Geelong’s most reliable assets. His ability to read the game and effectively disrupt opposition plays has been crucial for the team. However, this season has seen rival teams focusing their efforts on Stewart, aiming to minimize his influence on the field. This tactic has posed significant problems for Geelong, disrupting their usual flow and effectiveness.

Geelong coach Chris Scott addressed the media following their Round 13 defeat to the Sydney Swans, acknowledging the unique challenges the team faces this season. Scott highlighted the need for strategic adjustments to free up Stewart, allowing him to return to his natural, impactful style of play. The emphasis now is on developing tactics that counteract the opposition’s efforts to limit Stewart’s contributions.

One possible strategy involves rotating Stewart’s position more frequently throughout the game. By doing so, Geelong can make it more difficult for opponents to maintain a constant tag on him. Additionally, involving other defenders in sharing the defensive responsibilities can alleviate some of the pressure on Stewart, giving him more opportunities to play his game effectively.

Moreover, improving team communication and on-field synergy can significantly aid in overcoming these obstacles. Ensuring that all players are aware of the opposition’s strategies and can coordinate effectively can create opportunities for Stewart and other key players to break free from tight marking and make significant contributions to the game.

In summary, while Geelong has encountered substantial challenges this season with teams targeting Tom Stewart, strategic adjustments can help him regain his form. By rotating his position, distributing defensive duties, and enhancing team communication, the Cats can maximize Stewart’s impact and strengthen their overall performance as they strive to climb back to the top.