It was the Crows' first win over a top-eight side this season and coach Brenton Sanderson said it was reward for their hard work over the past month.
"I'm pleased that they get the rewards of a win after what's been a pretty tough couple of weeks, where we've been playing OK but not getting the W's," Sanderson said.
"To be behind against a top-four side and to guts it out like they did, it does set us up for long term.
"It's a little bit about mental toughness, it's a little bit about concentration, it's a little bit about having the poise and the leadership to take control of the game when it's really on the line."
Matthew Wright was a star up forward, kicking four goals including the match-winner.
"I was actually about to touch it on the ground but I probably don't have the leg speed to able to do that but fortunately it came off the boot right and I was rapt," Wright said.
Geelong did have the chance to pinch the lead back in the final minute but stars Jimmy Bartel and Harry Taylor both missed gettable, if difficult, goals.
"Not great, I wasn't feeling that great." Sanderson said of his mood during the final tense minute.
"Bartel on the correct side for a right footer - I've never seen him miss those in training or in games - and then Harry Taylor as a left-footer on the correct side."
Meanwhile, veteran midfielder Scott Thompson was subbed out in the third quarter of his 200th game.
Sanderson said Thompson, who was battling hip and groin problems, should be fine to face Fremantle next week but he also wanted to inject first-gamer Mitchell Grigg into the match.
The Crows are now 11th, two games and six percentage points outside the top eight, and belief among the group is growing that they can still play finals.
"We really needed a win, confidence is a massive thing," Wright said.
"This should give us plenty going forward and we'll go over to Fremantle and really take it to them."
