SNAPSHOT OF THE SECOND AFL PRELIMINARY FINAL
* Result: Geelong 11.16 (82) bt Brisbane 6.6 (42) at the Gabba.
* Key moment: Lions forward Eric Hipwood took a strong pack mark late in the third quarter with the home team still a chance of mounting a comeback. Despite being dead in front and just 30 metres out, Hipwood sprayed his set shot and with it went Brisbane’s hopes.
* Key stat: It evened up as the match went on but Geelong’s dominance in the clearance in the opening term, winning 15 to four, proved decisive. Using their control the Cats established a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
* Injuries: Lions’ winger Mitch Robinson needed some early treatment after copping a finger in the eye but returned without ongoing concern. Veteran Lions defender Grant Birchall limped off late in the fourth quarter with a hamstring injury.
* What’s next? Geelong move on to face Richmond in next Saturday’s grand final at the Gabba. It’s season over for Brisbane.