Cats crush Lions to book home Preliminary Final at MCG

GEELONG have progressed to yet another AFL Preliminary Final after an emphatic victory over Brisbane on Friday last week.

The Cats led at every break and stormed home in the second half to secure the 112-74 Qualifying Final win in front of over 86,000 fans at the MCG.

While the match started off relatively even, a four-goal run late in the second quarter put the momentum well in Geelong’s favour.

However, two controversial free kicks gifted Brisbane’s Cam Rayner two goals to end the half, which brought the margin back to 17 points.

With tensions high heading into the third quarter, the Cats steadied the electric crowd by kicking five goals to two, which ultimately put the game out of reach for the Lions.

The win came thanks to an even contribution, with 13 individual goal kickers for Geelong. Utility Mark Blicavs rucked in the absence of Rhys Stanley, kicking a goal from 20 disposals, while wingman Ollie Dempsey sensationally kicked three goals from his 25 touches.

Brisbane’s loss was further soured by a late calf injury to dual Brownlow Medallist Lachie Neale, which will put him out of action for the rest of the season.

Geelong will now host a home preliminary final in a fortnight’s time, against the winner of this weekend’s clash between Adelaide and Hawthorn. It is the Cats’ 14th preliminary final in 18 years, and their 10th under Chris Scott.

Meanwhile, Brisbane will face Gold Coast at the Gabba this Saturday, September 13 in a Semi-Final, with the winner to meet Collingwood for a spot in the Grand Final.