Whenever it looks like Geelong might be in a jam, with the opposition pouring on the pressure as they head inside 50, Jack Henry always seems to be in the right position on the last line of defence. 

Across the Cats' last five games, Henry has taken 18 intercept marks including another four against Brisbane last Friday night, ranked inside the AFL's top five players for average intercept marks per game. 

A number of big moments fell into the star defender's hands against the Lions, his subtle sidestep and confidence to walk through traffic on full display as he thwarted a number of Brisbane attacks, having a big influence in the victory. 

Henry's four intercept marks were part of an incredible performance from the defensive unit as a whole, with Tom Stewart, Connor O'Sullivan, Zach Guthrie and Henry taking 16 intercept marks between them. 

Henry said it was a brilliant display from the Cats' star defenders, certainly finding a rich vein of form at the right time. 

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 05: Jack Henry of the Cats runs with the ball during the AFL Qualifying Final match between Geelong Cats and Brisbane Lions at Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 05, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images via AFL Photos)

"I thought it is probably as good as we have defended all year to be honest," Henry told Cats Media. 

"The support on the ground, the support in the air was amazing from the boys.

"We get a lot of confidence out of that game, and look forward to the Prelim."

The Qualifying Final continued a strong season for Henry, who has built momentum throughout the campaign after missing a handful of games earlier in the year.

He is currently averaging career-highs in marks, rebound 50s, intercept possessions and intercept marks, having a significant impact to help guide the Cats to the penultimate week of the season. 

08:17

Roaming Interviews | Qualifying Final Post Match

Join the victorious Cats rooms as we speak to a number of players and staff post a fantastic win against the Lions. Proudly Presented by Ford Australia.

Henry said it was a brilliant game to be a part of on Friday night, while also keeping an eye ahead to another blockbuster in the Preliminary Final next week. 

"It was always going to be an exciting game," Henry said. 

"It had its moments, it was a bit of a rollercoaster at times but you could really feel that we were on top a lot of that game. It was very exciting and a great win. 

"It is always exciting going into a Prelim, it is amazing footy at that time of year.

"Back at the MCG too, hopefully we have got 90,000 or so there and it is going to be exciting, I can't wait."