SUMMARY
This is a crucial game for Greater Western Sydney, a win here could set them up for an historic first finals campaign. The Giants have bounced back from a form slump to win their past two games, but Geelong showed form when it beat the Western Bulldogs last week. If the Cats get up, they will keep themselves in touch with the top eight.
WHERE AND WHEN: StarTrack Oval, Canberra, Saturday, 1.45pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
PAST THREE TIMES
R18, 2014, Geelong 13.16 (94) d Greater Western Sydney 12.15 (87) at Spotless Stadium
R11, 2013, Geelong 24.13 (157) d Greater Western Sydney 15.8 (98) at Spotless Stadium
R10, 2012, Geelong 19.12 (126) d Greater Western Sydney 9.7 (61) at Simonds Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. Steve Johnson's 30 possessions, 12 marks and three goals earned him three Brownlow Medal votes in the clash between these two sides in 2014.
2. Contested possessions aren't a strong point for the Giants, who are ranked 18th in the League averaging 128.3 per game, while the Cats are 16th with 131.6.
3. The Giants are undefeated from two games at StarTrack Oval this season, while the Cats travel to Canberra for the first time since 2006. They've played at the venue twice, losing both times to North Melbourne.
4. Geelong averages more contested marks this season than any other side with 12.2 per game, while the Giants have struggled in this area, they're ranked equal 11th at 10 per game.
5. This clash is a battle between the most and least accurate teams in front of goal this season, Geelong is ranked first at 53.8 per cent while the Giants are 18th at 46.1 per cent.
6. Geelong skipper Joel Selwood returns from suspension this week, he's ranked fourth in the AFL's Official Player Ratings, and is likely to go head to head with Giants co-captain Callan Ward, who is ranked 13th. Both men are the No.1 ranked players at their respective clubs.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR …
Stephen Coniglio. The recently re-signed West Australian is likely to be given a job on Geelong captain Joel Selwood, who has racked up 39, 29, and 19 possessions in the three clashes between the Giants and the Cats. Coniglio loves it in close and had 17 tackles a fortnight ago against St Kilda, so Selwood can expect a tough day in the nation's capital.
PREDICTION: Greater Western Sydney by 27 points
