The GWS Giants have spoiled Geelong’s party, claiming a massive four-point victory on Tom Hawkins’ career night.
Tom Hawkins eclipsed Joel Selwood to become Geelong’s record game-holder with 356 appearances, managing 12 touches and two goals in the battle but it was not enough, as Geelong fall to four straight losses.
The Cats could not miss early in the contest, finding five straight in the first quarter in front of a packed GMHBA crowd.
The Giants had the run out of the centre of the park but only took full effect in the second term, booting six goals to Geelong’s one to pull back from 14 down, entering the main break with a strong 19-point lead.
Jake Riccardi was vital in the Giants’ front half, kicking three goals before the half including this stunner from inside the centre square.
Jake Riccardi, TAKE A BOW 😮#AFLCatsGiants pic.twitter.com/bToW6NyMzs
— AFL (@AFL) May 25, 2024
It was not all good news for GWS, as Stephen Coniglio was forced off in the second quarter with shoulder troubles.
The Giants kicked off the third with Riccardi’s fourth major as Jesse Hogan got in on the act to extend his Coleman chase, but three in a row for the Cats pulled the lead back to just 13 points ahead of the last exchange.
Tyson Stengle proved a game changer in the second half, finding his first goal right after the final break and doubling his total shortly after to tie the game midway through the fourth.
“They have lost all their composure, the Giants”, Jason Dunstall called on Fox Footy as Geelong’s Brad Close found the big sticks with a dribbler, however a decisive score review call curtesy of a Harry Perryman touch gave Geelong just a one-point lead twelve minutes to time.
It was all Geelong in the latter stages, but in stepped Toby Greene, kicking a stunner to regain the lead.
The Giants held on with immense courage, thanks to desperate Leek Aleer defending, as they break their three-game losing streak to claim the victory (11.12) 78 to Geelong’s (11.8) 74.
Leek Aleer saves the day for the Giants 🤯#AFLCatsGiants pic.twitter.com/qAQp1jIsqI
— AFL (@AFL) May 25, 2024
Geelong remain at home next week as they take on injury-riddled Richmond, while the Giants have a well earned break over the bye.