A blistering third-quarter performance from Shaun Mannagh propelled Geelong to a commanding victory over reigning premiers Brisbane in the grand final rematch at the Gabba on Thursday night. The Cats, who held a slender two-goal lead at halftime, exploded after the break, with Mannagh booting three goals in as many minutes on his way to a five-goal haul in the 17.15 (117) to 11.10 (76) triumph.
Geelong's Dominant Display
Brisbane struggled to keep pace, particularly in the third quarter, where they managed just two early tackles in a performance that drew sharp criticism from AFL analyst Kane Cornes. "It's as good a win in the home-and-away season as you'll see this year," Cornes said. "Five-day break with travel, to come and knock off the back-to-back premiers on their home deck on a Thursday night — what a performance and a message this Cats team is going nowhere."
The victory underscored Geelong's resilience under coach Chris Scott, proving that they remain a force in the premiership race. Luke Hodge had earlier speculated that Geelong might have "finally got to the cliff and fallen" after a slow start to the season, but the Cats have now surged to a 7-3 record, moving a win clear of Brisbane (6-4).
Players React to the Win
Geelong star Bailey Smith acknowledged the significance of the win but noted that the memory of last year's grand final loss still lingers. "It's a good one to set up the ladder for later in the year, to get one over them," Smith told Channel 7. "But they won it when it most mattered so that still stings. But you've always got a bit more of an edge to play someone who beat you in a granny."
Brisbane veteran Josh Dunkley conceded that Geelong had been their toughest opponent so far this season, surpassing Sydney, the Western Bulldogs, and Melbourne. "We've got to be better," he said. The loss leaves Brisbane with work to do as they look to defend their premiership crown.
More to come...
