GEELONG has been forced to leave out midfielder Steve Motlop for the final JLT Community Series game against Essendon.
Motlop, who turned 26 on Sunday, is ill.
The Cats have decided to take a cautious approach with Cam Guthrie as he recovers from a calf injury suffered against Hawthorn 25 days ago.
He is expected to be available for the Cats' round one clash against Fremantle while Motlop's selection is likely to become a discussion point in the lead-up.
Guthrie's brother Zach, who played two impressive JLT Community games in defence, is also out after copping a knock to his knee last week against Adelaide.
Essendon has named its strongest side for the pre-season series, only missing key forward Cale Hooker, who is yet to play a game this pre-season.
All Essendon eyes will be on last year's draft picks Andy McGrath and Josh Begley who have put themselves in the frame to make their debut in round one against Hawthorn.
GEELONG v ESSENDON
Queen Elizabeth Oval (Bendigo), 4.10pm AEDT, March 12
GEELONG
Out: Aaron Black, Cam Guthrie, Steve Motlop
ESSENDON
Out: Michael Hartley, Ben Howlett, Matt Dea
