Geelong showed plenty of determination despite falling short against Tasmania on Saturday, with strong passages of play and several standout individual performances across the four quarters.
The Cats made a positive start, looking dangerous with their attacking ball movement while matching Tasmania around the contest. Inside 50s were evenly shared throughout the opening term, with Melanie Staunton leading the way early after collecting nine disposals and two clearances. Annie Lee also made an immediate impact, finishing the quarter with seven disposals and a clearance.
Geelong continued to apply strong pressure in the second term, forcing repeated contests and working hard to limit Tasmania's opportunities. Bindi Crabtree was influential around the ball with 10 disposals as the Cats remained competitive heading into the main break.
The contest continued to be fought fiercely after half-time. Geelong's clean handball chains and strong marking were key features of the third quarter, while the Cats won the disposal count, 169-153. Nikita Harris provided important drive through the midfield with 10 disposals and two clearances as Geelong continued to create opportunities.
The Cats continued to compete until the final siren, with Faith Qoon producing a highlight in the final quarter after taking a strong contested mark before converting her set shot. Crystal Summers worked tirelessly to finish with 14 disposals and two marks, while Geelong edged the handball count in a final term where disposals and free kicks remained relatively even.
Lucy Marescuk was among Geelong's best, collecting 29 disposals, 19 kicks and nine marks in an outstanding all-round performance. Annie Lee continued her strong afternoon with 23 disposals, eight marks and two clearances, while Elise Cook battled hard through the midfield to record 18 disposals, 11 kicks and two clearances.
Although the result didn't fall Geelong's way, the Cats continued to show resilience throughout the contest, with several strong individual performances providing encouraging signs as they look ahead to next week's challenge.
2026 VFLW Season - Round 9
TASMANIA 0.3 1.6 5.6 5.7 (37)
GEELONG 0.3 0.6 0.6 1.7 (13)
GOALS
Tasmania: Clark 2, White, Hill, Barwick 1
Geelong: Qoon 1
