HAVING Mitch Clark alongside Tom Hawkins will make Geelong much harder to play against, according to assistant coach Nigel Lappin.

 

Although it was Clark's turn to cash in on Thursday night with six goals in the 19-point win over Adelaide, the Cats know the presence of multiple options is much more important than individual performances.

 

Lappin said Clark is not only a talented player, but he has slotted seamlessly into the Geelong system.

 

He indicated the 27-year-old understands that the best forwardlines operate as teams rather than a collection of individuals.

 

"It's very handy having another forward like him [Clark] to play alongside Hawk [Tom Hawkins]," Lappin said. 

"Hawk had a lot of attention tonight. He was often double-teamed and to be able to work off the line and find Mitch one-on-one against an opponent … Mitch is very good at that and he has fitted in really well and has played a really good game."

 

Clark was a little rusty against Gold Coast in his first game but Lappin said club was pleased with the tall forward's effort in Townsville.

 

However he added six goals was a nice return ahead of the opening home and away match against Hawthorn on Easter Monday.

 

"It will do wonders for his confidence," Lappin said.

 

Lappin said the coach's box was as excited as the spectators by the performance of Nakia Cockatoo, who kicked two brilliant goals in the second half and celebrated with enthusiasm.

 

He said the introduction of players such as Cockatoo, Cory Gregson and Darcy Lang gave a boost to the senior players and their zest for the game was infectious.

 

Lappin expects the Cats will take their best 22 into the final NAB Challenge game against Carlton in preparation for round one and hope to welcome Steve Johnson back from injury.

 

"It's the last chance to get a hit-out into all our senior players," Lappin said.

 

That best 22 now includes Clark and Cockatoo must be part of the discussion.