GEELONG coach Chris Scott has called on superstar Gary Ablett to continue his hot run of round one form after releasing the shackles at training on Friday.
Ablett's extended two-hour session has him primed for the season opener – a fixture he has averaged 33 disposals per match in over the past six seasons.
"He was good, it's probably the first time in the last couple of weeks that he's really let himself go and got good volume as well," Scott said.
"I think his standard preparation for AFL seasons has been no practice matches and dominate round one so hopefully that continues."
The 33-year-old completed high-intensity running before a one-hour match simulation saw him move freely, showing no signs of his injured hamstring.
Nine days out from the Cats' season opener against Melbourne, only a hiccup next week would prevent the dual Brownlow medallist making his return in blue and white hoops.
Ablett's first act in-play was the opening clearance where he roved former Gold Coast teammate Zac Smith's hit-out.
Playing mostly in a starting midfield alongside Smith, captain Joel Selwood and Mitch Duncan, Ablett showed signs of his explosive best, bursting away from stoppages.
As he left the track, Ablett signalled a tick to coach Scott, watching from the sidelines.
Injured teammate Patrick Dangerfield was a keen onlooker, completing stationary handballs as he looks to overcome his grade-one hamstring.
Sam Menegola, a late withdrawal from the side that lost to Essendon in last week's JLT Community Series clash, completed the simulation before undergoing an extra running session.
Scott Selwood spent time with the main group in match practice as he returns from his latest ankle surgery.
Injured duo Lincoln McCarthy and Lachie Henderson, with strapping on his right knee, were restricted to running away from the main group.
A number of Cats, including Nakia Cockatoo, Jordan Cunico, Cory Gregson and Lachlan Fogarty put their hand up on Friday night in a VFL practice match.
Gary Ablett looks ready for round one.
— Mitch Cleary (@cleary_mitch) March 16, 2018
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