Saturday 16 May - MCG
Melbourne - 2.3, 6.6, 8.7, 11.8
Geelong - 1.2, 3.2, 5.2, 9.2
Melbourne win by 2 goals
Goalkickers: Christy 3, Wardill 2, Powell 2, Leith 2, McCarthy 2
Melbourne dominated the ruck in the first quarter to take a 2-1 lead into the first break. They opened up the game and kicked 6 goals to 3 to take a comfortably 8-4 lead into the long break. The two sides kicked three goals apiece in the third term and the Reds seemed home and hosed going into the final term.
Geelong kicked the only two goals of the last term to make the game interesting but they were too far behind and Melbourne notched up a victory.
It was a high standard game, described as well-nigh perfect by VFA secretary TS Marshall. After quarter time Geelong demonstrated remarkable goalkicking, booting eight in a row in the last three quarters. Melbourne's forwards were less accurate, but they had more chances thanks to their dominant ruck division.
David Christy was voted player of the match in a game that Geelong captain Burns said was the best he had ever played in. McCulloch and Irving also dominated the ruck. Moody injured his shoulder.
Media
The Argus - 18/05/1896
The Australasian - 23/05/1896