Geelong midfielder Bailey Smith found himself under scrutiny from fans during a dominant 101-49 victory over North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium. The player, who joined Geelong from the Western Bulldogs in the off-season, showcased exceptional form, amassing a game-high 43 disposals. His impressive performance is indicative of a strong start to his first season with the Cats.
While Smith’s on-field contributions were significant, his interactions with North Melbourne supporters caught attention as well. The midfielder was seen engaging in exchanges with the fans, prompting commentary from Dermott Brereton about the appropriateness of such interactions. Brereton questioned the necessity of responding to fans, suggesting that while theatre is entertaining, some battles might be unwise to pick.
Collingwood legend Nathan Buckley acknowledged Smith’s polarising presence but praised the energy and work ethic he contributes to the game. Buckley noted that while some fans may have mixed feelings about Smith, his determination and engagement with supporters, such as inviting them for a beer post-match, reflects his charismatic personality.
Supporting Smith’s efforts were other key players, notably Jeremy Cameron, who had a standout night with 11 goals. Defensively, Shaun Mannagh and Tom Atkins were formidable, each delivering eight tackles. Collectively, Geelong’s stellar performance has kept them firmly in the top-four of the AFL standings, as they prepare for their upcoming match against Port Adelaide.
As the season progresses, Smith’s dynamic play and ability to draw attention—both positively and negatively—will be crucial for the Cats’ campaign.