Before we take on the Cats in another blockbuster this Monday, let's count down five of the best finishes in this thrilling rivalry from the past decade...
2012 ROUND 19
Hawthorn 14.18.102 defeated Geelong 15.7.97
This Round 19 clash against the Cats was, as always, a nail-biter and the Hawks fell just two points short, after an incredible fight back. The Cats dominated the play in the opening term with a 45-point lead heading into the first change. But the Hawks fired up in the second quarter and had a phenomenal 28 tackles, had 12 clearances, 36 effective kicks and took five marks inside forward 50. Bringing it back to just a 17 point deficit at half time, the Hawks had the momentum to get the win. In the end, it was Geelong’s forward pressure from Tom Hawkins that was the difference.
2013 PRELIMINARY FINAL
Geelong 18.10.118 defeated Hawthorn 17.14.116
The 2013 Preliminary Final is one of the most unforgettable games of the last ten years, with it ultimately resulting in a grand final berth. The seesawing competition had both teams showing their dominance in bursts. But with the Cats leading by 20 points heading into the final term, it was the ‘never give up’ attitude that propelled the Hawks into a come from behind win, kicking the last three goals of the match.
2017 ROUND 17
Geelong 13.10.88 defeated Hawthorn 12.13.85
Once again, the Hawks and the Cats fought it out in a classic heart-racing match. The game had many memorable performances, including Luke Hodge, who was celebrating his 300th game, kicking a goal with just 22 seconds remaining. Tom Mitchell also put on a show, collecting 42 disposals and two goals. But the Cats proved too good in the end, with Dan Menzel and Patrick Dangerfield kicking eight goals between them. An opportunity to pinch the lead in the dying minutes went amiss, and the Hawks fell by three points.
2018 ROUND 2
Hawthorn 17.16.118 defeated Geelong 18.9.117
In yet another thrilling clash against the Cats, the Hawks were victors by just one point, redeeming themselves from their previous losses during tight contests. The Geelong midfield partnership between Ablett and Dangerfield looked a massive threat, but the Hawks were able match their midfield pressure, despite both players coming away with over 30 disposals. Tom Mitchell was the stand out from the game finishing with 40 possessions and two goals. A Roughead mark in the dying minutes resulted in a point, which proved the difference at the final siren.
2018 ROUND 21
Hawthorn 10.11.71 defeated Geelong 8.12.60
For the second the time that year, the Hawks survived another cliff-hanger against Cats to win by 11 points. Despite a goalless opening term, the boys were able to display a last-quarter fight back to add to a fourth straight win and cement their finals position. Once again Ablett and Dangerfield looked to be dangerous in the midfield, with both registering over 30 disposals. But with superb performances from Tom Mitchell and Shaun Burgoyne the Hawks were able to overrun the Cats in the dying moments of the game.
