Geelong skipper thanks fans after Grand Final loss

GEELONG captain Patrick Dangerfield has paid tribute to the club’s fans, thanking them for their “unwavering support” at the Cats’ Family Day event at St Mary’s Football Club.

The gathering comes less than 24 hours after Geelong’s 47-point defeat to Brisbane in Saturday’s Grand Final at the MCG, watched by more than 100,000 fans.

Despite the loss, hundreds turned out on Sunday morning to welcome the Grand Final side, with Dangerfield expressing his gratitude.

“Thank you for your unwavering support,” he said.

“This year, for me, has been the most engaged I’ve ever seen our supporters. The last month in particular has been incredible.

“While it didn’t end the way we all hoped, I still feel there’s a huge opportunity ahead for this group.”

Cats coach Chris Scott also acknowledged the club’s backers after a season that saw Geelong finish second on the ladder and reach their seventh Grand Final in 18 years.

“I just feel so proud of the football club,” Scott said.

“Not just over the past 12 months, but over a very long period of time.”

Dangerfield and Scott urged fans to stay the course, with both confident the Cats can remain a contender for years to come.