Brisbane book AFL grand final spot, Collingwood lie in wait

The Brisbane Lions overcame a 30-point deficit to beat Carlton 11.13 (79) to 9.9 (63) in Saturday evening’s preliminary final at the Gabba.

The victory propels Brisbane into its first AFL grand final since 2004 and completes a perfect 13-game home winning streak this season, with the Lions now set to play the Magpies.

Collingwood has been installed bookmakers favourite to win the grand final, priced at $1.75, while the Lions are outsiders at $2.10, largely because the game will be played in Melbourne.

Also read: Magpies narrowly defeat GWS to advance to AFL grand final

The Lions could have hardly been more impressive after being challenged by the Michael Voss-coached Blues.

In what could be termed a tale of two halves, Carlton initially looked to be in control. The Blues kicked the game’s first five goals, taking a commanding 23-point lead at the end of the first quarter. Carlton’s Harry McKay, who returned after a concussion, and former captain Sam Docherty, contributed to the early onslaught, sending shivers down the spines of Brisbane fans.

But the momentum shifted dramatically after that. The Lions regained their composure, with a stellar midfield display led by Josh Dunkley, who effectively neutralised disappointing Carlton captain Patrick Cripps. Keidean Coleman and Conor McKenna turned the tide with their performance from the half-back line, generating scoring opportunities that put the Lions back on track.

Oscar McInerney, Joe Daniher, and Dayne Zorko all kicked two goals, while Lachie Neale’s eight clearances were crucial in the middle of the ground. Chris Fagan, coaching his first AFL grand final in his seventh season at the helm, must have heaved a sigh of relief, especially after witnessing an injury scare to Neale in the third term.

Carlton, although fatigued, showed flashes of a comeback in the final quarter with consecutive goals but was unable to keep up with Brisbane’s persistent attack and stout defence.

Brisbane showed that the lessons learned from previous failed finals campaigns had paid off, exhibiting a level of maturity and cool-headedness that saw them chip away at the deficit without appearing flustered.

They now advance to face Collingwood in what will be a grand final rematch of the 2002 and 2003 deciders, setting the stage for a historic showdown at the MCG next Saturday. With both teams looking to write a new chapter in their storied rivalry, the stage is set for an epic finale to the AFL season.

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