Geelong have taken their third AFL flag in five years with a comprehensive 38-point  win over arch-rival Collingwood in the 2011 Grand Final. The match was played in cold and greasy conditions, courtesy of some unpredictable Melbourne spring weather.

After enjoying much of the momentum, Collingwood 9.3 (57) led Geelong 8.6 (54) at halftime in a match that was played at a fierce tempo and shaping as classic contest, clearly showcasing how these teams finished 1-2 in the competition proper. The Cats had rallied to register three of the last four goals of the quarter to trail by just three points - after leading by one at quarter-time. Immediately prior to the long break Geelong forward James Podsiadly was stretchered off with a dislocated shoulder. Podsiadly was replaced by Mitch Duncan and subbed out of the game.

Geelong came into the match with one doubtful player, Steve Johnson – he survived the encounter unscathed to turn in a starring performance. Collingwood, on the other hand, came in with two doubtful players, Ben Reid and ruckman Darren Jolly. As the match unfolded, both players seemed to experience serious problems – Jolly from very early in the game and Reid towards the end. Tom Hawkins, undisputed star of the third term, marked numerous times in the fifty over Reid. Hawkins kicked three goals in the third term and in the final quarter set up a Johnson goal with a quicksilver handball.

The most telling statistic from the second half is that Geelong outscored Collingwood 10-3 in the term, due in no small measure to their 8-3 clearance success the third quarter. Geelong were getting the ball and using it well, methodically taking the game away from their opponent by kicking to their tall marking forwards who all performed very admirably. Collingwood had several players down on their best form, with even Brownlow Medallist Dane Swan largely held in check by Cameron Ling.

Geelong had many stars who performed solidly in laying the foundation for victory. They achieved their win through bustling endeavour, better exploitation of clearances and outnumbering the Magpies at any breakdown of the ball. So dominant were the Cats in this department that they appeared to have at least one extra body, everywhere - an advantage more traditionally enjoyed by Collingwood.

Jimmy Bartel, Hawkins and Johnson were inspirational for the Cats, with Bartel awarded the Norm Smith Medal for best on ground. Johnson, in doubt until an hour before the bounce, finished with four majors.

The grand final marks Collingwood's third loss for the season - all have been against the Cats.

The victory marks Geelong’s third flag success in five years, following their wins in 2007 and 2009. Geelong mentor Chris Scott became the thirteenth coach in AFL history to prepare a premiership-winning team in his debut coaching year.

2011 AFL Grand Final Result

Geelong 18.11 (119) def Collingwood 12.9 (81).

Saturday 1 October 1, 2011

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Crowd 99,537