Tenacious Cats beat Swans in AFL thriller
Geelong has pipped Sydney by two goals in a low-scoring AFL thriller at the SCG, overcoming a case of the yips and an inspired Lance Franklin.
The Cats prevailed 8.23 (71) to 9.5 (59) in one of the stranger games of the year.
Geelong's inaccurate goal-kicking and Franklin's four goals meant the contest was in the balance at three-quarter time, with the scores level.
Patrick Dangerfield converted a set shot after a contentious free kick to put the visitors in front some two minutes into the final term.
They never relinquished the lead, despite Tom Hawkins and Jamaine Jones both missing chances to land the knock-out blow.
External Link: Swans v Cats summary
Hawkins registered three behinds in the final quarter, including a set shot from in front, before Tim Kelly snapped the sealer on Thursday night.
Geelong's victory, coming after losses to Richmond and Western Bulldogs, ensures the Cats will stay in the top eight.
The Swans' loss means they will slip out of the top four if Port Adelaide defeat St Kilda on Saturday.
It could also prove incredibly costly on the injury front, with former co-captains Kieren Jack and Jarrad McVeigh both suffering injuries.
Jack hurt his knee during the first quarter and played no further part in the game, with the club fearing the veteran has tweaked his medial ligament and is likely to spend a month on the sidelines.
External Link: Swans v Cats stats
McVeigh trudged off late in the final term, having seemingly done serious damage to his shoulder or collarbone.
Franklin fell one goal short of booting the 900th goal of his career.
The superstar was one of few Swans to stand up in the lopsided opening half, tormenting opponent Mark Blicavs with a couple of classy goals.
Franklin then kicked the opening two goals of the third quarter, but the Cats rallied.
Geelong midfielder Mitch Duncan was among the leading best-on-ground contenders, tallying 32 disposals, while Selwood bounced back after being well tagged by George Hewett in the opening half.
Kelly, one of five players to debut for the Cats this year, kicked two goals and showed great composure throughout the match.
Hawkins, who helped push his side's lead to a match-high 21 points during the second term, finished with 2.5.
AFL ladder
External Link: AFL 2018 ladder
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