Fremantle Dockers defeat Geelong Cats to reach preliminary final

The Fremantle Dockers secured a 14-point victory over the Geelong Cats to advance to their first preliminary final since 2015. Playing before a record crowd of nearly 60,000 at Optus Stadium, the Dockers overcame recent form concerns following a loss to Hawthorn.

Shai Bolton provided an early spark with two goals in the opening minutes, while Patrick Voss played a pivotal role, scoring four goals including a sealer in the final moments. Luke Jackson was noted for a dominant performance in the ruck. Despite efforts from Geelong's Patrick Dangerfield and Ollie Henry to close the gap, Fremantle maintained their lead to end the Cats' season.