Geelong reign supreme, legacy confirmed
Wed 02 November 2011
Keagan Ryan, Bachelor of Journalism
The Geelong Cats won the 2012 AFL premiership following a comprehensive 38 point victory over reigning premiers Collingwood Magpies at the MCG in October, 2011.
Leading up to the Grand Final, the clash was touted as “years in the making” following seasons of close finals encounters.
Strong seasons from both clubs highlighted this fact, as each club was rarely challenged throughout the home and away season.
The pre-match lead up focused on Steven Johnson’s knee and his ability to participate in the match.
Eventually he was deemed fit, and made his presence felt as one of the most damaging and influential players on the ground with four goals.
However, he was edged out by Brownlow medallist Jimmy Bartel for the best player on the ground, and was accordingly awarded the Norm Smith medal for his efforts.
Bartel ran riot in the midfield, winning a stack of possessions and kicking three vital goals including a miraculous snap from the boundary line and a huge bomb from outside the 50 metre arc.
Bartel, accompanied by Joel Selwood, Paul Chapman and Captain Cameron Ling destroyed the much hyped Collingwood midfield.
Despite the flattering margin, Collingwood competed fiercely for the first three quarters, before eventually being outrun by the champions.
The Magpies lead the eventual premiers by three points at halftime and looked in prime position to win back to back premierships following their success the previous year over St. Kilda.
Geelong key forward James Podsiadly suffered a horrific dislocated soldier moments before the half finished, and seemingly left the Cats a man down with over half the match still to play.
However, in Podsiadly’s absence young Geelong forward Tom Hawkins stood up with a commanding performance over All-Australian centre half back, Ben Reid.
Hawkins threw his body at every contest and finished with a game high 10 contested marks, three goals and several score assists.
The victory gives Geelong its third premiership in the last five years, and confirms their status as one of the greatest teams in the history of the game.
Image(s) designed by