JASPAR WILSON-KEIR | JUNE 22, 2026
In Brayden Crossley’s 100th Southport game, the Sharks showed promising signs early against the competition’s top side, but inaccuracy in front of goal and Geelong’s efficiency going forward proved the difference across the afternoon.
Southport made a positive start to the contest, with Sam Day kicking the opening goal of the game to give the home side an early boost.
Despite generating more scoring opportunities in the first term, the Sharks were unable to fully capitalise, finishing the quarter with eight scoring shots to Geelong’s seven. The Cats made the most of their chances to take a 14-point lead into the first break.
The second quarter developed into a defensive battle, with both sides finding scoring difficult.
Southport’s backline stood firm for large periods, restricting Geelong’s opportunities and keeping the contest within reach. However, the Sharks were unable to make significant inroads on the scoreboard, heading into the main break trailing by 17 points.
The Sharks started the third quarter well kicking the first two goals, cutting the margin to just four points.
However, then the Cats began to assert themselves, finding greater fluency with ball in hand and gradually extending their advantage.
Four goals late in the third term allowed Geelong to create separation on the scoreboard, while the Sharks struggled to generate sustained forward momentum despite continuing to compete strongly around the contest.
Geelong maintained control in the final quarter, limiting Southport’s opportunities and ensuring the visitors left Fankhauser Reserve with the four points.
Through the middle Co-Captain Jacob Dawson (34 disposals, 11 clearances, one goal) battled hard throughout the contest and was once again among Southport’s best performers, while Finn Hay (eight tackles) played a key role on James Worpel.
Preston Cockatoo-Collins (nine disposals, three tackles), Max Spencer (18 disposals, eight marks) and Jackson Mills (20 disposals, six tackles, five clearances) all made important contributions in difficult circumstances.
Southport continue their VFL campaign at Fankhauser Reserve, this Saturday June 27 taking on Williamstown at 12:05pm.
SOUTHPORT 2.6 3.6 5.9 6.10 (46)
GEELONG 5.2 6.5 10.8 14.9 (93)
GOALS: Day 2, Butler, Casalini, Dawson, King
BEST PLAYERS: Dawson, Hay, Cockatoo-Collins, Spencer, Mills
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