Rhys Stanley – the Giant killer.

Geelong’s Rhys Stanley has produced one of the best performances of the season against Melbourne ruckman Max Gawn to propel the Cats to a critical late-season victory.

Stanley recorded the second-best hit-out differential of the year against the Demons’ colossus, stifling Melbourne's production out of the middle in a crucial win for the Cats.

Brodie Grundy is the only man to have beaten Gawn in the hit-outs this year, with Stanley recording the next best result by winning 31 hitouts to Gawn’s 38 on Saturday night.

It’s a remarkable result for the Cats big, with Gawn dominating established ruckmen all season to drive the Demon engine room.

Gawn’s scalps this year include recording 39 more hitouts than Ben McEvoy, 35 more than Todd Goldstein and 28 more than Sam Jacobs.

Best hit-out performances against Gawn in 2018

Gawn's biggest scalps in 2018

The favourable numbers didn’t stop there for Stanley, with the Cat producing the best result all season in head-to-head disposals against Gawn.

Stanley ran himself ragged to win 21 touches of the Sherrin, while Gawn could manage just 12 on the night.

It was just the fourth time all season Gawn has won less of the ball than his opponent, with Stanley in a league of his own when it comes to the margin.

Gawn's head-to-head disposals

The result will only strengthen Stanley’s claim to the number one ruck role this year, which had been tenuous until recent weeks.

Stanley has hit some real form in the back end of the year, rewarding Chris Scott’s confidence in the former Saint.

With Stefan Martin set to pay a visit to the Cattery this week, Stanley will have another battle on his hands, but not one he isn’t up for.