The Geelong Cats faced a disappointing defeat to the Brisbane Lions in the AFL Grand Final on October 7, 2023, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Despite their strong performance throughout the season, Geelong’s depth, which had been a hallmark of their success, faltered under the pressure of the championship match. The Brisbane Lions secured their second consecutive premiership, dominating the final quarter of a tense contest.
Geelong’s success this season relied heavily on their roster depth, allowing them to navigate the challenges of a grueling home-and-away season. However, in crucial moments of the grand final, key players struggled to deliver the performances expected of them. Notably, Patrick Dangerfield, who had been instrumental in leading Geelong to the final, was unable to replicate his extraordinary form from the previous week. At the age of 35, the pressure on Dangerfield to perform at an elite level was evident, and he, along with fellow veteran Jeremy Cameron, found it difficult to make an impact.
Cameron’s injury in the second quarter proved to be a significant blow for Geelong. After a fierce collision, he emerged with a right arm injury that visibly hampered his performance. By halftime, Dangerfield and Cameron had combined for only nine disposals, while lesser-known players like Ollie Dempsey and Shannon Neale contributed to the scoreboard, keeping Geelong level at the break.
As the match progressed, Brisbane began to assert their dominance. The Lions, riding a wave of momentum, took control in the later stages of the game. With critical contributions from their star players, Brisbane’s performance raised questions about a potential new era of success for the club. It was a stark contrast to Geelong’s struggle, as only Bailey Smith and Max Holmes managed to exceed 25 possessions for the Cats.
The final quarter saw the Lions’ superstars rise to the occasion, while Geelong’s key players faltered. This match should not overshadow Geelong’s impressive two-decade history of success both on and off the field. The team remains a strong contender, and the emergence of younger talents like Dempsey and Neale suggests a bright future.
While Geelong fans may feel the sting of this loss, the experience gained in this final is invaluable. Both Cameron and Dangerfield are expected to lead the team’s efforts in the coming seasons, potentially guiding the newer players into more prominent roles. As the Cats reflect on this grand final loss, they must regroup and focus on developing their younger talents into stars capable of carrying the team to future glory.
Geelong’s journey may have encountered a setback against a formidable Brisbane team, but the franchise’s resilience and commitment to excellence ensure they remain a significant force in the AFL landscape. The challenge now is for Geelong to harness this experience and return stronger in the next season, ready to reclaim their spot at the top.
