McDonald was a key figure early in Thursday night's match as the Cats raced out to a 30-15 lead by the 11-minute mark of the second term.
But Hawthorn dominated from that point on, kicking the next six goals to set up the 12.7 (79) to 9.7 (61) win.
Geelong's Amy McDonald has suffered a hamstring injury in her side's loss to Hawthorn. (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)
The result improved Hawthorn's record to 4-1, while Geelong's finals hopes hang in the balance with just one win and a draw from five matches.
In the end, two untimely injuries to the Cats in the second quarter ended up costing them dearly.
Geelong's Kate Surman was the first to exit the game when she was concussed from a heavy shepherd from Tamara Smith midway through the second term.
Smith is almost certain to be suspended for the bump, given Surman was unaware of the incoming contact and it ended up leading to a concussion.
Kate Surman came off the ground following this incident in the second quarter.— AFL Women's (@aflwomens) #AFLWCatsHawks pic.twitter.com/zEjQoM95hQSeptember 26, 2024
Then shortly before half-time, McDonald limped off with a game-ending right hamstring injury.
McDonald had tallied 14 disposals until that point, with her ball-winning ability and pace proving crucial for Geelong.
The Cats held a two-point lead at half-time, but Hawthorn dominated the third quarter with four goals to one to take control of the contest.
Star Hawthorn midfielder Emily Bates finished with 28 disposals and eight tackles, while Eliza West (24 disposals, seven clearances) and Mattea Breed (20 disposals, eight clearances) were also crucial.
Laura Stone cashed in up forward for the Hawks with three goals, and Aine McDonagh and Mackenzie Eardley kicked two apiece.
Geelong beat Hawthorn by 40 points last year, but the Hawks had the last laugh this time around.
"I'm so happy, especially considering last time we versed Geelong we lost considerably," Bates told the Seven Network after the match.
"It just shows the growth in this group, even seeing some of our young girls step up - Laura Stone with three goals.
"Mac has hardly played forward before and kicked two for us. I'm so proud of the group."
Geelong forward Aishling Moloney kicked three goals from her 19 disposals in a standout display. She also tallied eight score involvements.
Geelong's Aishling Moloney (left) was outstanding with three goals against Hawthorn. (Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOS)
Star Geelong midfielder Georgie Prespakis, in her return from injury, finished with 21 disposals, eight tackles, four clearances, one goal and 433m gained, while Nina Morrison battled hard with 21 possessions, 11 tackles and a goal.
Morrison dominated the opening term with nine disposals and a pack-busting goal to give Geelong a strong start.
The third quarter was when Hawthorn really stamped their authority, with Stone kicking two goals and Bates tallying 13 disposals for the term.
Hawthorn's margin swelled to 24 points early in the last quarter, and they were able to withstand a mini Geelong fightback to post their fourth win of the season.
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