While it is tough to focus on the positives on the wrong side of a result, Jack Bowes can hold his head high as he reached the 150th game of his AFL career. 

Bowes finished the night with 19 disposals and kicked two goals, able to impact both ends of the ground with four score involvements and six intercept possessions, despite only playing 59% game time. 

It was a solid return for the slick Cat who earned a recall after a brilliant run of form at VFL level, featuring in his first AFL game since Geelong's Round 9 clash with Collingwood. 

Despite the heartbreaking finish on Thursday night, Bowes said the week has been a chance for him and his family to reflect on the journey and celebrate his career to date. 

"A little bit, times like that it is good to reflect," Bowes told Cats Media. 

"It is hard in footy at times, because it is so week-to-week.

"It is so awesome to have my wife here, her family and my family, they travelled over to Adelaide and made the effort which was super.

"All the boys and coaches sent so many great messages, they were so supportive.

"It is a pity we didn't get it done, but hopefully there is still a few more to come."

Geelong fell agonisingly short on Thursday night, their third loss by under a goal and second defeat by a single point in 2026. 

While it was a disappointing result on the road, there will be some silver linings for the Cats to take from the contest as they return home next Friday night. 

Sam De Koning was swung into the ruck and finished with a game-high 10 clearances, while Patrick Dangerfield spent plenty of time through the middle of the ground, amassing 30 disposals for the first time this year. 

Bowes said that both players were instrumental on Thursday night, helping to keep the Cats in the contest and giving the team a different look around stoppages. 

"DK was super, it was probably the best game I have seen him play this year," Bowes said. 

"He provides a great contest for us in the ruck, and some good stability behind the ball.

"Danger was back to his best, attacking the footy and leading from the front as he always does.

"They weren't the only two out there tonight, but hopefully we can freshen up and go again next week."