Mitch Duncan hunting a second premiership medallion

Mitch Duncan started the 2011 Grand Final in the green vest but he will play an important part for the Cats nine years after his last decider as the classy midfielder hunts a second premiership.

Mitch Duncan in the preliminary final win over Brisbane. Picture: Michael Klein

Mitch Duncan was in just his 29th match when he played in an AFL premiership but has had to wait 193 games for another shot at Grand Final glory.

The classy midfielder is one of only four players remaining from the 2011 flag when he was only in his second year.

Duncan, 29, said he had a greater appreciation of another chance shot at the ultimate prize after a long wait, which included preliminary final losses in 2013, ‘16, ‘17 and ‘19 before Saturday night’s breakthrough win.

Mitch Duncan shows off the 2011 silverware.

“I was just kind of young and naive but just loved playing footy and probably didn’t soak it in as much as I could have,” Duncan said.

“It’s a great feeling obviously but knowing I suppose all the hard work that you need to do to get there, it’s quite rewarding at the minute.”

Duncan started as the sub in the decider nine years ago, replacing James Podsiadly in the second term.

He would finish with a neat 10-possession game, including a running goal from beyond 50m late in the third term as Geelong took control against Collingwood.

The West Australian has since gone on to become a Geelong champion, even if his CV does not have a best-and-fairest or All-Australian jumper to speak for his skill.

He was again in the best players in the 40-point triumph over Brisbane Lions on Saturday night to set up a Grand Final berth against Richmond.

Mitch Duncan kicks a running goal in the 2011 grand final.

Connections from Geelong and the Tigers are sharing the same hub facility in Queensland, in what could provide some awkward moments during the week.

Duncan said he did not expect to have any problems with the arrangement.

“It’s going to be interesting but I think we’re all kind of mature enough,” he told the Sunday Footy Show.

“It’s a weird and wonderful year … I don’t see myself having a problem with it and any of my teammates.

“I’m sure it will be fine.”

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Originally published as Mitch Duncan hunting a second premiership medallion