The AFL 2025 first preliminary final between Geelong and Hawthorn at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) promises to be a riveting encounter, as both teams vie for a spot in the grand final. The match, set against the backdrop of a storied rivalry, kicked off with intensity as the Hawks quickly took the lead, showcasing their efficiency near goal.
In the opening quarter, with 11 minutes remaining, Hawthorn led Geelong 2.2.14 to 0.1.1. Jack Ginnivan snapped the Hawks’ second goal after intense pressure forced a hurried kick from Geelong’s Oisin Mullin. Conor Nash’s tackle on Mullin earned a free kick, though his subsequent left-foot snap was rushed for a behind. This early advantage highlighted the Hawks’ ability to capitalize on their opportunities.
As the quarter progressed, Geelong’s Max Holmes attempted to close the gap with a dribbled shot, but Hawthorn’s defenders held firm. Despite the Cats having more inside 50s, the Hawks demonstrated resilience, a trait that has been their hallmark throughout the finals series. Meanwhile, Mitch Lewis, who had a subdued semi-final, missed a set shot, keeping the Cats within reach.
The Historical Rivalry
The rivalry between Geelong and Hawthorn is steeped in history, with both clubs boasting a rich tradition of success. Geelong, a perennial contender, has been in premiership contention for nearly two decades, becoming a destination for players seeking a quieter life outside Melbourne’s spotlight. Their sustained success, marked by four premierships in 18 seasons, stands in contrast to the AFL’s equalization efforts.
Hawthorn, on the other hand, has been a thorn in Geelong’s side, particularly in finals. The Hawks have won all four cut-throat finals against the Cats since 1963, a statistic that looms large over this encounter. The “Kennett Curse,” a term coined after former Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett’s comments in 2008, adds another layer of intrigue to this storied matchup.
Team Dynamics and Key Players
Both teams enter the preliminary final with well-balanced sides. Geelong’s strength lies in their ability to take marks inside 50, averaging 16.2 per game, and their wealth of finals experience. The Cats’ lineup is in top form, with notable players like Patrick Dangerfield and Jeremy Cameron leading the charge.
Hawthorn’s resurgence has been fueled by their prowess at center clearances, with Jai Newcombe emerging as a key onballer. The Hawks’ recent victories over GWS Giants and Adelaide have demonstrated their capacity to perform under pressure, making them formidable opponents.
“To follow Geelong in these times is a privilege,” says Dean Sherr, reflecting on the Cats’ transformation from a team plagued by grand final defeats to a modern powerhouse.
Path to the Preliminary Final
Geelong’s journey to the preliminary final has been marked by strategic preparation. They finished the home and away season with a six-match winning streak and a decisive victory over the Lions in the qualifying final. Their experience and tactical acumen have been critical in reaching this stage.
Hawthorn’s path has been more challenging. After missing a top-four spot due to a final-round loss to Brisbane, the Hawks have shown resilience, winning back-to-back finals on the road. Their impressive performances against GWS and Adelaide have solidified their status as a team capable of upsetting the odds.
Looking Ahead
As the preliminary final unfolds, the stakes could not be higher. The winner will face either Collingwood or Brisbane in the grand final, a prospect that adds to the tension and excitement of this clash. For Geelong, a victory would bring them closer to a fifth premiership in 19 seasons. For Hawthorn, it would mark a triumphant return to the grand final stage for the first time since their 2015 premiership three-peat.
Jonathan Horn, covering the match at the MCG, notes that this season has culminated in a showdown between arguably the four best clubs of the century. With both teams bringing their A-game, fans can expect a thrilling contest that could go down in AFL history.
As the match progresses, all eyes will be on the MCG, where history, rivalry, and the pursuit of glory converge in what promises to be an unforgettable AFL preliminary final.
