David Astbury – 7
Continued his consistent season with another solid performance in defence. Played his role in keeping the Cats' key forwards quiet and showed desperation and poise when under pressure.
Liam Baker – 6
Buzzed around in the defensive half of the ground and split the honours with Gryan Miers in an engrossing individual battle. Won some important contests and provided vital support to his key defenders.
Shai Bolton – 4
Didn't have a major impact up forward and struggled to get involved in the contest. Didn't have a single tackle, which will be a concern, and also didn't hit the scoreboard.
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Nathan Broad – 6
Had a strong first half in defence, including an outstanding spoil on Esava Ratugolea in the second quarter to prevent a certain mark and shot on goal. Was concussed in the third quarter and didn't play any further part in the game.
Josh Caddy – 5
Didn't have a huge impact playing on a wing. Caddy's five intercept possessions were important, but he also turned the ball over four times from his 13 disposals.
Jason Castagna – 7
Played an important role with his creativity in attack and forward pressure. Finished with two goals, but could have easily had three or four. Took a strong contested grab in the third quarter and converted the goal when the Tigers were on the charge.
Trent Cotchin – 7
Another solid performance from the inspirational Tigers skipper. Only the 14 disposals, but eight contested possessions, six tackles and four clearances. Unlucky to concede a 50m penalty that led to Patrick Dangerfield's goal just before half-time.
Shane Edwards – 8
Often considered to be under-rated, but that can't be the case anymore. Continues to excel in September. Was busy in and under, with 12 contested possessions. Set up a crucial goal in the last quarter with a beautiful piece of roving off the marking contest.
Brandon Ellis – 7
Another busy game on the wing with 18 disposals at 83 per cent efficiency. Covered plenty of ground and had a hand in five score involvements.
Jack Graham – 4
Was in the wars early when he dislocated his right shoulder in the first quarter. Showed plenty of courage to return to the game in the second half and ensured the Tigers didn't go two players down after Nathan Broad was ruled out with concussion.
Dylan Grimes – 7
The All-Australian defender turned in another strong game to keep the Cats' key forwards quiet. Benefitted from not having to stop Tom Hawkins, but did the job on Lachie Henderson.
Bachar Houli – 9
Very close to Tom Lynch for best on ground honours with 32 disposals and 11 marks. Was outstanding in defence with his run and drive to spark the Tigers into action when they were under the pump in the first half.
Kane Lambert – 5
Didn't have a great night by his usually-reliable standards, with eight turnovers from his 18 disposals, but kicked a crucial goal in the last quarter.
Tom Lynch – 9
Edged out Houli for best on ground honours with a powerful performance, booting five goals and taking 10 marks. The key forward showed why the Tigers were so keen to secure his services from the Gold Coast.
Dustin Martin – 7
The Brownlow Medallist played on one leg after copping a knock in the first quarter, but lifted in the second half to lead the Tigers' resurgence. His composure in tight to set up Dion Prestia's goal was superb. Still finished with 22 disposals.
FIVE THINGS WE LEARNED Chris Scott you were wrong
Toby Nankervis – 4
It was a quiet night for the ruckman, who finished with just five disposals and 11 hitouts. Was clearly out-pointed by Rhys Stanley and couldn't go with his Geelong counterpart's athleticism around the ground.
Dion Prestia – 8
A huge game for the human meatball, kicking two goals to go with 28 disposals to top off an outstanding effort. The dominant midfielder on the ground with his strong clearance work and ability to burst away from stoppages. His goal in the last quarter punched the Tigers' Grand Final ticket.
Jack Riewoldt – 4
The key forward was barely sighted in the first three quarters before becoming more involved in the last term. Missed two set shots on goal, including hitting the post from a snap around his body.
Daniel Rioli – 4
A quiet game for the small forward, with nine disposals and didn't hit the scoreboard. Only had the two kicks and two tackles. Didn't provide enough forward pressure.
Jayden Short – 5
Only had an average game in defence with 13 disposals, including 12 kicks, but turned the ball over six times.
Ivan Soldo – 6
Had a solid game in the ruck with 23 hitouts to go with 10 disposals. Also took four marks and claimed a couple of crucial grabs.
Nick Vlastuin – 6
Played an important role in defence without finding a lot of the footy. Did what was required and kept the Cats' medium-sized forwards under control.
