Geelong are once again well in the frame when it comes to premiership contention, despite going without a flag in 10 years.
The Cats have only missed the September action once since their 2011 Grand Final win over Collingwood, a run that includes five preliminary final appearances.
Last year's heartbreaking loss to Richmond on the final day of the season was Chris Scott's first return to the big stage since hoisting the trophy in his maiden campaign down at Kardinia Park.
Fast forward to this year with three matches remaining in the home and away season and the Cats are sitting pretty once again, currently occupying second spot on the ladder.
While tonight's match against Greater Western Sydney is sure to be at the forefront of the playing group, there is still shared focus with what lies ahead.
In what will be star midfielder Cameron Guthrie's 200th game for the club, the reigning Carji Greeves medallist said Friday night's match against the Giants is another step in reaching that alluded premiership.
"I think that drives most of the guys here," he said. "Kind of realising that ultimate goal.
"We've got the potential to do it so I guess realising that potential and accomplishing something together would be massive for our team and also the wider community.
"So mind on the job and one eye on what's ahead."
Albeit with a conclusion of heartbreak, 2020 was a breakout year for the 28-year-old, who was selected into the All-Australian side as well as winning his maiden best and fairest.
Speaking on the missed opportunities of yesteryear and more, Guthrie said it has been a key learning curve on the path to potential success.
"It was in some ways a hurdle we had to reach," Guthrie said.
"Coming up short does make you think 'will it ever happen? Will we ever get the chance to play in the Grand Final'.
"We think our team has the potential to do great things. We felt like we didn't really live up to that, which was perhaps the most disappointing thing.
"We know that we can make it now. Last year confirmed that, and we'd love to go one better."
2021 has once again seen the Sunbury product hold down a key role in Scott's midfield, boasting elite numbers as Geelong's leading ball-winner.
Despite the recent individual successes, Guthrie is at the point in his career where he has been able to switch off the internal focus and can now look to aid the club with what he has been able to build on.
"At this stage of my career I don't really think about myself too much as an individual," he added.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
"Obviously you have to get yourself right because your teammates rely on what you can bring to the table, but it's also realising what my individual talents can bring to help the team."
Should the Cats clinch a further four points at GMHBA Stadium this weekend, they will be perched atop the summit of the league for at least the next day, waiting on the results of the currently favoured suitor for the minor premiership in the Western Bulldogs.
Geelong are fixtured to face St Kilda and Melbourne in the final fortnight of the 2021 season.