Cats flex muscles against hapless Tigers to dodge wildcard final
The Geelong Cats secured a top-six finish in the AFL after a dominant 57-point victory over the Richmond Tigers. The win allows the team to take a week off before the upcoming finals series.
Why it matters
Securing a top-six spot is critical for AFL teams to manage player fatigue and prepare strategically for the high-stakes finals series.
Geelong will finish inside the top six and earn a week off after thrashing Richmond at GMHBA Stadium
--> Ollie Henry celebrates a goal during Geelong's win over Richmond in round 24, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos A TOP-SIX spot locked in, a comfortable win in front of the home crowd and the return of champion forward Jeremy Cameron from injury – Saturday night couldn't have gone much better for Geelong.
The Cats have earned a week off and could finish as high as fourth if Hawthorn loses to West Coast on Sunday night, following their comprehensive 57-point victory over Richmond at GMHBA Stadium.
CATS v TIGERS Full match coverage and stats
The home side did most of the damage in the first half, streaking to a 49-point lead at the main break before cruising to victory, 20.13 (133) to 11.10 (76).
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