The Bendigo Bank VFL Cats recorded a thrilling four-point win on a lovely Saturday afternoon against the Sydney Swans at Tramway Oval.

Geelong managed to hang on despite losing the tackle count by a considerable margin, winning the match 9.10 (64) to 8.12 (60).

The first two quarters was a half of repeat entries, with both sides having periods of continuous inside 50s. 

The Bankers defenders showed their experience, holding up well against the Swans forwards.

There were only four points in it with five minutes to go after goals from Jackson McLachlan and Jye Chalcraft in the final term.

Ben Jarvis pulled up clutch with a strong tackle stopping a forward 50 entry and a great contested mark late to seal the victory.

While the forwards worked well, it was the defenders who held up best.

New face Trent McMullan was a standout down back, saving multiple goals and keeping a cool head under countless repeat entries.

Skipper Aaron Black and fellow leadership group member Jackson Thurlow also proved their worth with some quality rebounds and one-on-one contests.

Moving forward, Geelong will need to keep their focus on hitting targets when taking the ball out of defensive 50 and improving on their tackling presence.

The next week will prove a welcome challenge to test the side’s fitness with just a four-day turn around until the next match.

The Cats will play the Northern Bullants next Thursday, 7.10pm at Marvel Stadium.

Geelong  3.1 6.3 6.7 9.10 (64)
Sydney  2.2 3.7 6.10 8.12 (60)

Goals: Chalcraft, Jenkins, Smith (2), Johnston, McLachlan, Ratugolea (1)

Best: Fort, Black, Tate, Thurlow, Constable, McMullan

Reports: Nil

Injuries: Nil

@ Tramway Oval (Sydney)