SUMMARY
It was just two weeks ago the Cats' run to the finals was precariously placed after they lost Tom Hawkins and Mitch Duncan to suspension, and Joel Selwood to an ankle injury that required surgery. This week, Selwood will be the only one of that trio missing as they look to make it three wins from three starts, after somewhat unexpectedly dispatching of Richmond in round 21 and then Collingwood on Saturday. Their wins have sealed a top-four finish, and a victory on Saturday night will catapult them over Greater Western Sydney and into second. Meanwhile, the Giants can finish top with a win (if Adelaide loses to West Coast), after winning their past four games. They've got a handy in too, with veteran and recently retired Steve Johnson to return to face his former club after a week of rest, while Josh Kelly remains in red-hot form as speculation about his future reaches fever pitch.
• Forecast the road to the flag with the AFL Ladder and Finals Predictor
WHERE AND WHEN: Simonds Stadium, Saturday, August 26, 7.25pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE MEETINGS
R15, 2017, GWS 10.8 (68) drew with Geelong 10.8 (68) at Spotless Stadium
R11, 2016, Geelong 14.14 (98) d GWS 14.4 (88) at Simonds Stadium
R2, 2016, GWS 13.11 (89) d Geelong 11.10 (76) at Manuka Oval
R17, 2015, Geelong 9.15 (69) d GWS 6.6 (42) at Manuka Oval
R18, 2014, Geelong 13.16 (94) d GWS 12.15 (87) at Spotless Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. It will be a timely return for Tom Hawkins, given he nearly won the game for the Cats in round 15. The big forward could be seeking redemption after missing a shot after the siren that could have won the Cats the game, which consequently ended in a draw.
2. Expect an engaging battle in close. These are two of the best clearance teams this season, with the Giants ranked first with an average of 42.7 a game and the Cats sixth with 37.9.
3. The Giants could look to gain ascendency in the ruck, as they possess the No.1 ranked ruck division this year with an average of 45.2 hit-outs a game. The Cats, who could welcome back Rhys Stanley to support Zac Smith, average just 40.8 in comparison.
4. The Giants will create history with a win. They are yet to have success at Simonds Stadium with two losses from as many starts. It will provide a timely dress rehearsal for them ahead of September, with the Cats to request a home final if they're scheduled to host the Giants.
5. Time for a controversial point; the Cats have had more free kicks than any other team this season. They average 20.7 a game, compared to the Giants' 18, which ranks them 12th.
6. You can see why Josh Kelly remains the hottest property in town when looking at the Schick AFL Player Ratings. The 22-year-old has trended upwards all year and has reached a season-high of No.16 overall after his impressive display against the Eagles.
IT’S A BIG WEEK FOR … Steve Johnson
It could be his last game at the ground he played so many at, and he'll want to play well for a few reasons; to see off his playing career in Geelong in style, and to help the Giants avoid having to go back there in two weeks' time.
PREDICTION: Greater Western Sydney by 10 points
