The VFLW Cats’ season has come to an end, falling to Essendon by 49 points on Saturday in their final game of the year.
Geelong fought hard all day producing some great moments in the second half, but they faced a tough challenge against a Bombers side that needed a win to secure their place in the VFLW finals.
Abby Favell led the way for the Cats with a stellar performance, picking up 26 disposals and seven clearances while also laying eight tackles.
Lily Jordan (25 disposals & 13 tackles) and Poppy Schaap (17 disposals & 6 tackles) both capped off their year nicely, with the pair consistently among Geelong's top players each week this season.
The opening half followed a similar trend to most of the Cats games this year, finding plenty of the footy around the ground, but struggling to hit the scoreboard as they trailed by 36 points at the main break.
Piper Dunlop was strong in the ruck, collecting 11 disposals and four clearances in the first half while also winning a game high 16 hit-outs.
The Cats came out after half time and got the game on their terms, locking the ball inside their forward half for an extended period, which eventually led to a brilliant Lily Jordan goal.
Bridget Aughton added another goal late in the final quarter, but unfortunately it wasn't enough as the Bombers kicked away to close out the 49 point win.
The VFLW Cats finish their season in 14th position on the ladder, but 2024 has been an exciting year of growth for the young Geelong list, with a number of promising debutants and emerging stars showing their potential.
VFLW Round 14
GEELONG 0.1 0.1 1.1 2.3 (15)
ESSENDON 3.0 6.1 9.3 10.4 (64)
GOALS: Jordan, Aughton 1
DISPOSALS: Favell 26, Jordan 25, Davies 24, Schaap 17
@ Windy Hill, Melbourne
