Kane Johnson in awe of talent
Mark Stevens | March 18, 2008
BE afraid. Very afraid.
That is the clear warning from Richmond captain Kane Johnson as Geelong prepares for its premiership defence.
Johnson, who saw the scary Cats up close in a practice match 10 days ago, has predicted they will carry on from last season.
"They'll beat a lot of sides by very big margins, don't worry about that," Johnson said.
Johnson's Tigers were smashed by 72 points in the trial hitout at Skilled Stadium.
Asked if Geelong had improved on last year, Johnson said: "They're just very, very slick.
"Very even across the board and very in synch with each other.
"They're a very good side, don't worry about that."
Johnson has never been one for outlandish statements, but he spoke like a man in awe of Geelong's talent and depth.
"We've got a lot to do to get to their level," Johnson said.
Port Adelaide doesn't need to be reminded how scorching Geelong can be, losing the Grand Final by a record 119 points.
The Power fronts up to its demons on Thursday night at AAMI Stadium in the season-opener against the Cats.
Johnson's glowing appraisal followed an honest assessment by Richmond coach Terry Wallace.
"I am very thankful we don't have to come back here for the year," Wallace said after the loss.
"Look, you're playing the best side in the competition, who beat the second-best side in the competition by 100 points last year, and I can assure the other sides that they are up and running and ready to go."
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