Dempsey on the takeaways from Round 17

We haven't actually reviewed it yet, we will have a meeting after this. But I am sure we will get through that in the next little bit.

It was obviously a disappointing loss, we really wanted to win that one and they are a quality opposition that will be up there.

We did play well, but we just didn't play well for four quarters. I think that was the thing that was probably the most disappointing, not taking a few of our chances.

I think we had more scoring shots and more inside 50s, so it does hurt a bit when you do that.

They capitalised really well and they are a quality opposition, so a lot to take from it positively but we have a bit to work on too. 

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 02: Oliver Dempsey of the Cats kicks the ball during the 2026 AFL Round 17 match between the Geelong Cats and the Brisbane Lions at GMHBA Stadium on July 2, 2026 in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos)

Dempsey on whether the Cats can draw inspiration from previous years

I think I know what you mean, in 2024. It is definitely similar, and I think even last year a bit as well, we lost a few games and then went alright in the back half of the year.

It is a long year and there are so many ebbs and flows.

Obviously the last few matches we haven't gone that well, a couple of close losses and ones that we probably should have won.

We are not looking too negatively on it and as you said, there are seven games to go for us to get it right so we can be right up there like we were in 2024. 

Dempsey on facing GWS

It will be good to play them.

Obviously they played well on the weekend, they beat Fremantle.

They will be ready to go, but we will be ready for the challenge too. Hopefully we can get one back on them. 

GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - JULY 02: Oliver Dempsey of the Cats and Oliver Wiltshire of the Cats celebrate a goal during the round 17 AFL match between Geelong Cats and Brisbane Lions at GMHBA Stadium, on July 02, 2026, in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images via AFL Photos)

Dempsey on Geelong's defence

We made a few bad turnovers on the weekend, it felt like that out there anyway.

We haven't fully reviewed it, but it felt like we gave up six easy goals just from our mistakes.

That is not a trend of ours, it might have just been what it was last week.

But I think we are fine in that sense, but we are feeling alright and our defence is the backbone of this team. 

Dempsey on Jeremy Cameron

He is a very confident person and he is a competitor at the end of the day.

He is a very relaxed and laid-back type of operator. But when it comes down to it, he is a competitor and he loves playing footy and loves winning.

So I am sure he will take a bit from the weekend, and he will be back better than ever.