Geelong have stormed back to beat North Melbourne by one point in an epic AFL match at Etihad Stadium.
When George Horlin-Smith goalled from a free kick with two minutes left, it was the first time the Cats had led.
They then held on to win 17.10 (112) to 17.9 (111), kicking five goals to one in the last quarter.
The Kangaroos were given little chance, especially when star ruckman Todd Goldstein was a late withdrawal with an ankle injury.
But North were outstanding, first jumping Geelong in the opening quarter for a four-goal lead.
Geelong predictably fought back to trail by a goal at half time but North kicked clear again in the third term to lead by 32 and nearly looked home.
Captain Joel Selwood and Patrick Dangerfield had massive last quarters to lead the late Geelong surge.
The Cats also made a crucial move in the third term, temporarily shelving the experiment of playing Harry Taylor as a forward and putting him back into defence.
The much-decorated key defender helped settle the Cats as they steadily loosened North’s hold.
North midfielder Shaun Higgins was best afield, while Trent Dumont was superb for much of the match in a defensive role on Dangerfield through the midfield.
The Kangaroos put fierce physical pressure on Geelong and once again, questions will be asked of the Cats for another lapse during a game after their poor opening term.
While the ‘Roos out-tackled Geelong, they will pay a price for their aggression.
Late call-up Braydon Preuss was reported after he cannoned into the back of Jackson Thurlow at a marking contest.
Defender Scott Thompson will also come under video scrutiny after he collected Dangerfield with a high forearm during the first quarter.
Daniel Menzel was outstanding for the Cats with four goals.
While fellow Geelong forward Tom Hawkins also kicked four, he gave away five free kicks and Robbie Tarrant outplayed him.
North captain Jack Ziebell bravely played out the game despite a heavy knock in the third quarter and ruckman Majak Daw also impressed for the ‘Roos.
