Geelong have beaten a disappointing Port Adelaide in a scrappy, physical game at Adelaide Oval.
The first quarter was a weird one: Port having most of the attacking opportunities, but being seemingly unable to make anything of them.
They were also dominating much of the play early, but as the script usually proceeds, Geelong soon got their groove into the game and booted three quick goals (compared to Port’s sole major) to skip to a lead. They were leading by twelve at the first break.
The second quarter was probably more scrappy than the first, but Port did manage to gain some ascendancy at stages.
While still being frustrating with some of their forward forays, Port booted a trio of goals to close the gap, but Geelong kept their lead through to the final siren.
Port looked at their best in the third quarter, snatching the lead back at one stage, but as they usually do in scrappy, low-scoring games, Geelong reared it’s head and made sure they kept the lead – thanks to a on-the-siren goal from Jordan Murdoch – into the final break.
The fourth, despite its (limited) potential as a close, intense quarter – was anything but, with Port failing to close the lead for a final time and Geelong running away with the ballgame thanks to four late goals.
Joel Selwood and Patrick Dangerfield – as you’d expect – were prolific (29 and 28 touches respectively), while late call-up George Horlin-Smith had 26 touches and a couple of handy goals.
Youngsters in Brandan Parfitt, Tim Kelly and Lachie Fogarty were also all noticeable throughout the game – a great sign for the Cats.
Port were well served by Robbie Gray and Ollie Wines (32, 29 touches respectively), while Jake Neade booted two goals and Lindsay Thomas both delighted and frustrated.
Veterans in Travis Boak and Brad Ebert also gathered disposals aplenty, but neither was particularly influential.
Final score
Port Adelaide Power 7.8 (50)
Geelong Cats 12.12 (84)
Who’s in your ultimate team? Pick the best team and compete with other fans for daily prizes on Draftstars. For the best odds on the game try out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Think. Is this a bet you really want to place? Set a deposit limit.
Geelong coach Chris Scott has hit out at the AFL Tribunal's decision to clear Charlie Cameron for his dangerous tackle on Jake Lever, saying…
Round 5 of the AFL provided plenty of action, from big scorelines to upset wins and pressure starting to build on some clubs and coaches already.
The AFL Players' Association has come out swinging against the league for their decision to hand Port Adelaide forward a three-match suspension for using…
Geelong has been crafty and creative in its list management and has quietly assembled a very exciting young group of midfielders and half-forwards.
Brisbane co-captain Lachie Neale will be looking to lead his team to a victory against Melbourne in what will be his 250th AFL game.
It’s high stakes with five teams having lost their first three games of season 2024, and in desperate need of a win.
