To Kent, or not to Kent. That is the question…

Geelong heads to Cairns Saturday night to battle the Kangaroos in round two of the NAB cup. And with the Kangas resting up to 12 of their top players, the result shouldn’t be in question. What will, however, is if Geelong’s glamour boy full-forward, Kent Kingsley, can maintain his goal kicking form, having dobbed 9 straight last week.

It was revealed by Geelong assistant coach Ken Hinkley that Kingsley wore a pair of Matthew Scarlett’s boots during last weeks match, something he has done once before in a game where he kicked 7. Hinkley joked that he should borrow them every week but I’m sure Mrs. Watson would rather see him borrow something else of Scarlett’s, namely some balls. However, the physiological challenge this presents to the Geelong medical staff, not to mention the hygiene issues, will probably mean that he’ll stick to the lucky boots this week.

I for one am a Kingsley believer and am willing to go on record right now in saying he will have a big year. With Brad Ottens being assigned the marquee defender and teams unwilling to zone off Nathan Ablett, Kent might end up seeing opposing teams 3rd best tall down back. Along with the continued development of Henry “Hank” Playfair, Charlie “the Constant” Gardiner and Tom “Tom” Lonergan, Geelong has the potential for a fairly potent tall forward line. Throw in the crumbing prowess and defensive pressure of Paul Chapman, Gary Jnr. and perhaps rookie Travis Varcoe and it could be one of the best attacks in the league. And leading this top of the line attack in its dance towards the finals? The Kent of Kingsley and his magic boots.

Tips: Geelong by 34 points.
Melbourne by 18 points.
Adelaide by 13 points.
Collingwood by 2 points.