But the Magpies did not seem to miss him too much - they reached quarter-time with 7.1 on the scoreboard, to the Cats' 1.1.

The one highlight for Geelong was their only goal, to Daniel Menzel, who was returning to AFL football after enduring a nightmare run of four consecutive knee reconstructions.

Cloke felt tightness in his hamstring in the dying moments of the team's on-ground warm-up and Pies coach Nathan Buckley told TV crews said he did not want to take any risks with his star.

Teammates Steele Sidebottom and Darcy Moore scored two goals for the Pies in the first five minutes of the game.

Menzel got a couple of disposals in the opening minutes and took a good mark about 35 metres out on an angle, but only managed a behind with that kick.

Twelve minutes in he kicked a skillful, snap shot at goal from about 50 metres out and was embraced in a huge bear-hug by his teammates.

Geelong need to avoid defeat against Collingwood to have any hope of making the AFL finals series.

With AAP