MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 19: Patrick Dangerfield of the Cats celebrates a goal during the AFL Preliminary Final match between Geelong Cats and Hawthorn Hawks at Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 19, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images via AFL Photos)
BREAKING: Geelong has secured its place in the AFL Grand Final following a stunning 30-point victory over arch-rivals Hawthorn in a preliminary final held at the MCG on September 19, 2025. In a captivating performance, Patrick Dangerfield shone brightly, leading his team to a decisive win despite losing star player Tom Stewart to a concussion early in the match.
The Cats, who faced a daunting 21-point deficit, fought back to clinch the match with a final score of 17.13 (115) to 13.7 (85) in front of 99,597 fans. This victory marks Geelong’s 20th grand final appearance and sets the stage for a showdown against the winner of the much-anticipated Collingwood-Brisbane clash set for tomorrow.
Dangerfield’s remarkable display included 32 disposals, eight clearances, and three goals, showcasing his leadership and determination as he rallied his team after Stewart’s early exit. “He’s got 28 touches and 3 goals in his 30th career final,” tweeted the official AFL account, highlighting Dangerfield’s historic performance.
Despite the setback of losing Stewart, who will miss the grand final under concussion protocols, Geelong’s depth shone through. Bailey Smith contributed with 36 touches and six clearances, while Jeremy Cameron added three goals. Zach Guthrie delivered an impressive defensive performance with 10 intercepts, and Jack Henry battled through an ankle injury.
The Hawks, making their first preliminary final appearance in a decade, started strong with three early goals, establishing a 22-1 lead. However, they struggled to maintain momentum as Geelong fought back, with Dangerfield’s goal igniting the comeback. While Hawthorn’s Jack Gunston netted three goals, their midfield was outperformed, with Jai Newcombe and James Worpel unable to match the Cats’ intensity.
As the dust settles from this thrilling match, all eyes will now be on the upcoming grand final, where Geelong aims to secure its fifth premiership of the century. The Cats, under coach Chris Scott, are poised for their fourth grand final appearance in just 15 seasons.
Stay tuned for updates on the grand final matchup, which promises to be a historic clash.
