clearances and contested ball, not paying enough respect to the likes of Sydney's Ben McGlynn, and, despite the greasy conditions, having handballed more than they had kicked. But the correction was both quick and profound. Geelong changed its game markedly, having nearly twice as many kicks as handballs for the second quarter. It locked down on McGlynn, who had 10 first-quarter touches but only eight for the rest of the game. The Cats began to win the clearances, dominate the inside 50s, and eventually, the goals came with it. Geelong has tightened up defensively from the team that had become dangerously unaccountable by the end of last season, its midfielders less inclined to roll the dice and run forward en masse. But neither has it put its attacking instincts aside, the balance of the two mindsets right now about perfect. The Cats have shown more faith in their up-and-comers than has St Kilda, and have been rewarded. Daniel Menzel, Taylor Hunt and Mitch Duncan all have made important contributions already this season. Roles have been changed, only marginally in many cases, but enough to freshen up the players concerned. Steve Johnson's wizardry is being used a lot more in midfield. As a player who by his own admission has been hammering down the coach's door for years trying to get a look-in there, he looks re-energised. David Wojcinski is being used a lot more from a wing, his pace and long kicking even more damaging. His three goals on Saturday