Geelong's extraordinary 2026 VFL campaign has ended in heartbreaking fashion, with the Cats falling to Box Hill in Sunday's Smithy's VFL Grand Final at IKON Park.

The Cats made the perfect start, recording the opening inside 50 before Jacob Molier capitalised on a brilliant contest from Jed Bews to kick the first goal of the afternoon. Geelong's attacking intent was evident from the outset, while its defensive pressure continually forced Box Hill into rushed disposals. Jack Bowes capped off a dominant opening quarter with a goal of his own and led all players with nine disposals.

Geelong's backline continued to stand tall in the second term, refusing to give the Hawks easy ball movement as the Cats maintained their pressure around the contest. Bews provided one of the moments of the Grand Final when he launched an incredible goal from 52 metres, while George Stevens' tackle lifted the side. Hunter Holmes was influential through the midfield with 11 disposals, eight handballs and a clearance, while Nathan Kreuger's nine disposals, seven kicks and three marks helped control the air.

The contest tightened after the main break, with both sides locked in a fierce midfield battle. Patrick Kelly worked tirelessly around stoppages with 10 disposals, two marks and a clearance, while Lennox Hofmann produced an outstanding third quarter, collecting 15 disposals, eight handballs and three marks. Geelong continued to win the inside 50 battle and created repeat scoring opportunities, but Box Hill remained within striking distance.

With the premiership on the line, the Cats threw everything at the final term. Dan Capiron was influential across the ground, providing composure and drive through transition, while Mitch Knevitt and Bowes led the midfield charge.

Knevitt finished with 22 disposals, three marks and four clearances, Bowes added 20 disposals and four clearances, and Jamieson Ballantyne's late goal kept Geelong within reach.

Jhye Clark battled tirelessly with 27 disposals, three marks and two clearances, George Stevens finished with 25 disposals and four clearances, while Hofmann capped off a superb afternoon with 22 disposals and three marks. Despite the brave fightback, Box Hill finished the stronger side as the final siren brought an end to Geelong's remarkable season.  

2026 VFL Season - Grand Final

GEELONG CATS         2.1   3.4   3.7    5.9     (39)  
BOX HILL HAWKS     3.1   6.5   8.8    8.14    (62) 

GOALS
Geelong Cats: Z.Stevens, Molier, Bowes, Bews, Ballantyne 1
Box Hill: Dear 2, Schubert, Reeves, Preston, Nairn, McLaughlin, McCabe 1

DISPOSALS
Geelong Cats: Clark 27, G.Stevens 25, Knevitt, Hofmann 22, Bowes 20
Box Hill: Greeves 28, Hustwaite 26, Dalton 24, Scrimshaw, Maginness 22