# Geelong Cats AFL finals preparation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/geelong-cats-afl-finals-preparation
> Updated: 2026-08-31T05:06:56.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

Ahead of the AFL finals series, concerns were raised regarding the Geelong Cats’ ruck depth. Matthew Lloyd noted that while Mitch Edwards has performed well, there are questions about whether the team possesses sufficient experience to compete against elite ruckmen in high-stakes matches, citing recent clearance struggles.

As the team prepares for an elimination final against the Carlton Blues, focus has shifted to player fitness and tactical matchups. Midfielder Max Holmes is working toward a return following ankle surgery, while the team faces challenges regarding defensive gaps and Carlton’s midfield strength.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-31: Geelong Cats prepare for AFL elimination final against Carlton Blues

Geelong prepares for an AFL elimination final against Carlton, with Max Holmes eyeing a return from injury as the Blues look to extend their recent dominance over the Cats.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/geelong-cats-prepare-for-afl-elimination-final-against-carlton-blues

### 2026-08-16: Matthew Lloyd warns of Geelong's ruck depth concerns

Matthew Lloyd warns that Geelong's lack of experienced ruck depth could derail their premiership aspirations during the AFL finals series.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/matthew-lloyd-warns-of-geelongs-ruck-depth-concerns

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Cite as: Geelong Cats AFL finals preparation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/geelong-cats-afl-finals-preparation