Geelong’s VFL side has suffered defeat for the first time in eight matches, falling to Casey, 8.6 (54) to 8.9 (57).

After coming off seven straight victories, the Cats played a top quality brand of football from the first bounce before falling short late in the match.

With both sides coming into the game in strong form, it was a high intensity clash from the opening bounce.

The Cats came out firing in the first half kicking five goals whilst restricting their opponents to just one.

The visitors were an improved side in the third term, but inaccuracy in front of goal saw the Cats maintain a 22-point lead at the final change.

The final term saw Casey kick into gear and pile on five goals to hit the front late in the match.

The Cats, who were down to three players on the bench, ran out of legs as the Demons held on to win by three points for their 10th straight victory.

Despite the loss, the Cats remain in third position on the VFL ladder and showed that they can match it with one of the top teams in the competition.

Dynamic duo Ryan Abbott (46 hitouts) and Zac Smith (44 hitouts) were prominent in the middle of the ground, giving the Cats’ midfielders first use.

After averaging over three goals per game at GFL club St. Mary’s, Aiden Grace made his VFL debut and impressed as a lead up forward.

Grace was dangerous around goal, kicking two, whilst Jackson McLachlan also kicked two and was amongst the best players for his 23-disposal effort.

Charlie Constable continued his impressive first year, racking up 26 touches and taking six marks to be in the Cats’ best.

Captain Tom Atkins continued his stellar form, racking up 31 touches (25 contested), five clearances and eight tackles to be named best afield.

The Cats will have a bye next week before they look to get back on the winner’s list when they face Richmond at GMHBA stadium in round 18.

VFL Round 16
Bendigo Bank Cats 8.6 (54) def. by Casey Demons 8.9 (57)
Goals: J.Mclachlan, Grace 2, Abbott, Gardner, Miers, Murdoch
Best: Atkins, Smith, J. Mclachlan, Gardner, Kiel, Constable
Reports: Nil
Injuries: Horlin-Smith (Shoulder AC)
@ GMHBA Stadium