AFL fans react to Geelong's t-shirt stunt ahead of Patrick Dangerfield's 350th career game - as Brisbane Lions flex their premiership muscles
Geelong's bold decision to fill GMHBA Stadium with a sea of white t-shirts ahead of their clash with Brisbane on Friday night backfired after the Lions cruised to a 41-point victory.
The away side didn't read the script, kicking four early goals to assume control in what was a statement performance.
The triumph also ended the club's long losing run in Geelong.
Promoted pre-game as 'a sight to behold' and a 'slice of history' on the Geelong website, the Cats decked out every seat at the venue with white t-shirts.
It is a move often seen in US sports, with the Indiana Pacers and OKC Thunder doing so in the NBA Finals.
On a night when the club was also celebrating captain Patrick Dangerfield's milestone 350th AFL appearance, the commentators backed the concept.
'They have kitted out the Cattery with the white T-shirts on every seat, inspiration drawn from the NBA and college football in the US,' Gerard Whateley said on Fox Footy.
'It is quite the sight as the local heroes emerge onto the field.
'Patrick Dangerfield said one of his favourite parts of this would be (his children) Winnie, 'Flip' (Felicity) and George joining him to run through the banner.
'All the kids are fully aware of what they're part of, his place in Geelong folklore, which grows tonight, game 350...on (what is) a special night.'
But numerous footy fans weren't on the same page, taking to X to question the move from the Cats.
'Lol white out is a roaring success so far,' one posted before halftime as Brisbane assumed control.
'I don't think the white out worked,' said another.
'White out turning into a whitewash,' a third weighed in with.
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