UPDATE: Geelong’s Shaun Mannagh is gearing up for a thrilling AFL Grand Final against the Brisbane Lions this Saturday, July 15, 2025. The Cats, having finished second on the ladder, are riding high after two decisive victories, including a 38-point win against Brisbane in the qualifying final and a 30-point victory in last weekend’s preliminary final.
Mannagh believes the team’s relaxed approach will be crucial as they aim for ultimate glory. “At the end of the day, it’s just a game of footy, isn’t it?” he stated. “We can’t overcomplicate it. We just have to go out there and do what we have done for the past 25 weeks.”
The Cats’ captain, Patrick Dangerfield, delivered a jaw-dropping performance in the preliminary final, amassing 32 disposals, three goals, and 21 contested possessions. At 35 years old, he continues to defy age, impressing teammates and fans alike. Mannagh remarked, “It’s actually incredible… Danger is like a big child off the field, to be fair. He looks after his body, which is probably the main thing.”
As the squad prepares for the Grand Final, Mannagh highlighted Dangerfield’s leadership, noting that he even energized the team during their warm-up last weekend by playing “Danger Zone” and strutting around the changerooms. “If the captain of our club is as relaxed as anyone, there is no reason for anyone to be uptight. We will have a fun week in the lead-up to the grand final and embrace it,” Mannagh added.
In a touching moment, Dangerfield was the first to congratulate Mannagh after he won the AFL Coaches Association Best Young Player award, texting him with a stunned “WTF.” Mannagh expressed gratitude for the support he has received during his journey, thanking his coaches and teammates for their role in his success.
As the clock ticks down to the grand final, Mannagh and the Cats remain focused and energized. They aim to deliver the one accolade that has eluded Dangerfield: a premiership captaincy. The excitement is palpable as fans anticipate what promises to be an unforgettable showdown.
Stay tuned for more updates as the big day approaches!
