Geelong's workhorses went to battle through the middle of the ground on Thursday night and produced a match-altering performance around stoppages, inspired by some brilliant work from James Worpel in one of his best games for the club thus far. 

The tough on-baller consistently put his head over the footy and it paid dividends, finishing the night with a game-high 10 clearances from his 24 disposals, while also laying six tackles and registering six inside 50s in a strong display. 

Worpel led a remarkable night for Geelong's midfield unit, winning the clearance battle by 17 over Collingwood which is tied for their biggest differential over the last two years. 

Most of the damage was done at stoppage clearances (+16), but the Cats' total of 51 clearances was their highest tally since Round 21 of the 2024 season, having a substantial impact on Thursday night's result. 

With a different midfield mix in recent weeks, Worpel said it has been pleasing to see the cohesion amongst the group, while also noting how important Mitch Edwards was once again in the ruck. 

"Yeah it was really good," Worpel told Cats Media. 

"We have got a few role players in there, with Max [Holmes] out it doesn't help.

"But I think Mitch Edwards probably had his best game for the year as well for us, he was great and it has been great to see him develop.

"The boys just played their roles in there and we are doing the best we can."

Worpel had to bide his time for a large portion of his inaugural season with the Cats, making nine appearances at VFL level throughout the year and continuing to ply his trade. 

After a 10-week absence from Geelong's AFL side between Rounds 9 and 19, Worpel returned with a bang against St Kilda and collected 24 disposals to help the Cats get back on the winner's list. 

But perhaps his best performance of the Hoops came on Thursday night against the Magpies, a key driver through the midfield to help Geelong clinch a crucial victory in the context of their season. 

Worpel noted that it is nice to be out on the biggest stage and how pleasing it was to secure an important win over an old rival. 

"It is great, it is good to be playing good footy at this time of year as well," Worpel said. 

"Collingwood are a great team, they have been in some good form so it is good to get the win.

"It has been good to be back. Thursday night footy against Collingwood, there is nothing better really.

"It is good to be back in the ones, I had a fair stint in the twos. But I am super happy to be back in the team and to play my role."