It took Geelong a little while to release the shackles on Sunday afternoon but after a tightly contested start, the Cats put the foot down and stamped their authority to close out a strong win over the Eagles. 

The match was predominantly played through the corridor due to the narrow dimensions of Norwood Oval, but the Cats adapted well and were able to score freely, finishing the game with 37 scoring shots to West Coast's 21. 

It brought a number of Geelong's midfielders into the contest and they made the most of their opportunity, finishing ahead in the clearance battle (+8) and inside 50 count (25). 

Take a look at some of the standout performances and some key statistics that flew under the radar on Sunday afternoon. 

Bailey Smith 

34 Disposals, Seven Clearances, 13 Score Involvements, 16 Inside 50s

Between the long flowing hair, the iconic headband and the amount of times he found the footy on Sunday, you would have to be seriously not paying attention to have not noticed Bailey Smith against the Eagles. 

With an equal game-high 34 disposals and 13 score involvements, Smith was able to pick the opposition apart and continually found space with his elite running capacity, certainly not the first time he does that this season. 

But what was truly remarkable was the star on-baller's ability to break the game open in the forward half, equalling the all-time V/AFL single-game record with a whopping 16 inside 50 entries. 

Smith also amassed 868 metres gained, the most of any player on the ground and added a long-range goal in the first quarter, capping off a remarkable and well-rounded four-quarter performance. 

James Worpel

20 Disposals, 11 Clearances, Nine Score Involvements

When the game turned into a tough and tight contest, it was always going to suit Geelong's big-bodied and hard-nosed midfielders, and James Worpel was one that certainly capitalised in his second game for the Cats. 

Able to insert himself around stoppages, Worpel collected a game-high 11 clearances which was four more than anyone else on the ground, also recording 20 disposals and kicking his first goal in the Hoops. 

But what was perhaps the most pleasing aspect was his ability to use the footy cleanly, going at 80% disposal efficiency and recording nine score involvements to have an impact going forward. 

It was a brilliant outing for Worpel as he adapts to life at the Cattery, also ultimately an ideal way to celebrate his 150th AFL game. 

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 11: James Worpel of the Cats celebrates a goal during the 2026 AFL Round 05 match between the Geelong Cats and the West Coast Eagles at Norwood Oval on April 11, 2026 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos)

Mark O'Connor

14 Disposals, Three Goals

He has certainly proven to be a versatile asset for the Cats over a long period of time, but Geelong fans probably did not expect Mark O'Connor to put West Coast to the sword on the scoreboard. 

The Irishman went into Sunday's match with 150 AFL games under his belt and had never kicked more than one goal in a single match, but quickly amended that as he launched through three goals in the first half alone. 

He would also dish off a goal assist from his 14 disposals, with O'Connor having a significant impact on return after missing the Easter Monday clash with Hawthorn. 

00:38

Irish delight: O’Connor strikes twice in as many minutes

Mark O’Connor drills back-to-back goals during the second term helping the Cats kick away with the lead

Jack Bowes

19 Disposals, 10 Score Involvements, One Goal

After returning to the elite level last week, it is becoming clear that Geelong have found a very effective role for Jack Bowes. 

Bowes was able to influence the scoreboard last Monday with two goals and two goal assists in the opening half, but he backed that up with another 10 score involvements and a goal of his own against the Eagles on Sunday. 

What might go unnoticed is his work rate and running capacity, with Bowes often able to find space along the wings and across half forward which gives him time to spot up targets with his silky skills. 

19 disposals at 84% efficiency and the 10 score involvements paints the picture, with Bowes quickly reminding everyone just how important he is to this Geelong team. 

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 12: Jack Bowes of the Cats is helped by Bo Allan of the Eagles after going over the fence into the crowd during the round five AFL match between Geelong Cats and West Coast Eagles at Norwood Oval, on April 12, 2026, in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Mark Brake/Getty Images via AFL Photos)

Connor O'Sullivan 

19 Disposals, 12 Marks, Seven Intercept Possessions

If there is one certainty that can be taken away from Gather Round, it is that Connor O'Sullivan would want his time again from the top of the goal square in the final term, with the chance to kick the first goal of his career. 

But in a high-scoring game that was dominated by attacking midfielders and influential forwards, O'Sullivan was able to stand tall in defence for the Cats and ended up collecting an equal team-high seven intercept possessions. 

The young star took an impressive 12 marks and was even able to register four score involvements, another impressive display for O'Sullivan who remarkably continues to get better each and every week.