Mitch Clark has kicked six goals as Geelong defeated Adelaide by 19 points in Thursday’s NAB Challenge clash at Simonds Stadium.

The former Demon made an excellent first impression in his debut game in front of the Cats’ home crowd with a blistering opening term helping set up the 1.12.6 (87) to 0.9.14 (68) win.

Clark’s three goals in the first quarter got Geelong off to a flyer, but Crows coach Phil Walsh will be pleased with how his side fought back after being opened up too often by the free-flowing Cats in the first half.

Patrick Dangerfield gave both clubs a timely reminder of what they’re fighting over with the impending free agent showing flashes of brilliance in his 20-disposal, two-goal effort, while young teammates Cam Ellis-Yolmen and Brad Crouch also impressed.

The old firm of Joel Selwood, Jimmy Bartel and Andrew Mackie were prominent throughout. The Cats had nearly 70 more disposals than Adelaide in the first half and deserved their 29-point lead at half-time.

The Crows didn’t help their cause with some wayward kicking for goal with Eddie Betts and Rory Sloane managing their side’s only goals for the half.

Clark asserted his dominance in the aerial contests, but Geelong had plenty of other attacking options with six different goal scorers at the break.

Taylor Walker had a quiet night, but kicked his only goal early in the third quarter as a resurgent Adelaide slashed the margin to four points.

But Clark was again a key performer as the Cats saw off the challenge with exciting youngster Nakia Cockatoo booting a super goal as the home side eased to their first win of the pre-season.

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