The result may not have gone their way, but Tuesday night's practice match provided the Cats with a perfect final hit-out to finish off the pre-season. 

Playing against an Essendon team that brought plenty of intensity, Geelong were able to tinker with their line-up and game plan as the attention now turns to the start of the AFL season. 

One player in particular that impressed on Tuesday night was Gryan Miers, who finished with 30 disposals and eight score involvements in a dominant display. 

Miers said it was a really solid hit-out for the Cats, helping them to adapt to a higher intensity as they look ahead to what awaits next Thursday. 

03:18

Gryan Miers Post Game Interview | AAMI Community Series

Gryan Miers spoke with Geelong Media after Geelong's AAMI Community Series clash with the Bombers. Presented by Ford.

"It was a really high intensity game, which is great for us in the lead up to the season," Miers told Cats Media.

"They brought the pressure early and it made us fumble, forcing us to play outside of our comfort zone which is a perfect situation for us really.

"You don't want to go out here and use these games as a training drill, you want to actually get some new intensity and put some new things in place for the season ahead.

"I thought Essendon brought a really good game today, it ebbed and flowed around the contest and we changed it up throughout which was great for us. I reckon it was a great hit-out and there are a lot of good things to takeaway."

With the pre-season formalities now in the rearview mirror, the focus shifts to a blockbuster Opening Round clash as the Cats head to the Gabba to take on Brisbane next Thursday. 

The 2025 season is shaping up to be an exciting one for Geelong, but Chris Scott and his side will be looking to get off to a positive start in eight days time. 

There is no taller task than taking on the reigning premiers at the home ground, but it is a challenge that Miers and the Cats certainly feel they are ready for. 

06:57

AAMI Community Series | Match Highlights

Watch the highlights from the Cats and Bombers clash in the AAMI Community Series

"We are so pumped," Miers said. 

"I think we have all had our eyes on this game for a very long time, particularly since the Christmas break we have been counting down the days to get there.

"Now we are basically there, it is all eyes on Brisbane and they probably have their focus on us too.

"It is going to be a great game, hopefully we get one back after last year so I can't wait."