'I want more': AFL greats back Bailey Smith's post-game comments as rivalry ignited
AFL greats are expecting fireworks when Bailey Smith takes on the Western Bulldogs for the first time since his departure from the club later this month.
Smith fanned the flames following Geelong's win over Collingwood, flaunting the fact that he had just played in a game in front of 82,000 at the MCG, while the Dogs played in Ballarat with a crowd under 5,000 as they belted Port Adelaide by 90 points.
When asked in the aftermath of the Cats' narrow win in front of a packed house, Smith said "it's beautiful, mate - not getting that at Ballarat".
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Bailey Smith after Geelong's win. AFL Photos via Getty Images
Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli hit back the following morning.
"It's nice to know we're still on Bailey's mind. You know, he's still thinking about us even at another team. And, you know, in the end, there's probably a few less people down in Ballarat for him to flip the bird to," Bontempelli said.
"So maybe that's why he's a little bit disappointed."
Smith naturally followed up on his Instagram story, checking in from 'The Salty Dog Cafe' in Torquay, while dropping three fishing emojis.
Bailey Smith to his 361,000 Instagram followers Instagram
Essendon great Matthew Lloyd isn't surprised by the animosity.
"That heartburn is real, isn't it. He didn't leave on the best of terms," he told Nine's Sunday Footy Show.
Damian Barrett added that he believes Smith had made his mind up about leaving the Dogs for Geelong well before the end of 2024, as he rehabbed from a torn ACL.
Richmond champion Matthew Richardson said he loves the drama and believes this sort of animosity is good for the sport.
"I think Bailey Smith has been great for Geelong and I think it's great to have him back for the game in general because he's got a bit of personalist and spunk about him," he said on 3AW.
"I want more of it. I love it. How big a game will it be? Thanks Bailey, I say."
Smith starred for the Cats in their three-point win over Collingwood, finding 34 disposals and kicking a goal.
