The Cats were superb in their final home and away match of season 2017, downing top-four rivals Greater Western Sydney by 44 points.
Cats Media identified three points of interest to follow throughout the finals-shaping match. Here’s how they played out:
Winner takes all
The Cats certainly saved their best for last, earning themselves a home final with their most complete performance of the year to date.
In accounting for the highly rated Giants by some seven goals, Geelong sets up a tantalising qualifying final against Richmond Friday week at the MCG.
It’s not a home final at Simonds Stadium as hoped, but with the Tiger Army in full voice and Cats fans flooding the Princes Highway, it could be a final unlike any other.
Another chance to say goodbye
It was a forgettable night for Steve Johnson and the Giants, with the former Cat registering just eight disposals and failing to hit the scoreboard in what was his final game at Simonds Stadium.
The applause was instead saved for former teammates Andrew Mackie and Tom Lonergan who announced their retirement post-match and were cheered from the ground by the home crowd.
Steve Johnson struggled to make an impact in the Giants' forward half against the Cats. (Photo: AFL Photos)
Hawk and healing
Tom Hawkins was welcomed back to the fold with open arms and immediate impact.
Having served his two-match suspension, through which the Cats thankfully went undefeated, Hawkins booted two goals and tallied 20 disposals and whopping 10 marks.
It was the tune-up he needed ahead of a finals series he will need to play an integral part in if the Cats are to taste September success.
Tom Hawkins with up and about on Saturday night against the Giants. (Photo: AFL Photos)
