Geelong Cats prepare for AFL elimination final against Carlton Blues

The Geelong Cats are preparing for an AFL elimination final against the Carlton Blues, facing a challenge from a Carlton side that has won four of their last five regular-season encounters.

Geelong midfielder Max Holmes is attempting to prove his fitness for a potential return following ankle surgery performed in round 19. While his availability remains uncertain, teammate Tom Atkins noted that Holmes has been training consistently over recent weeks.

Carlton enters the match with a dynamic midfield featuring Jagga Smith, Patrick Cripps, and Sam Walsh. Analysts suggest Carlton’s ability to control tempo and their superior ground ball game inside 50 may pose difficulties for Geelong, particularly as the Cats look to address defensive gaps following the absence of Jed Bews.