Eric Hipwood inspires historic Lions comeback win over Dogs

Brisbane have pulled off one of the great modern AFL comebacks, storming from 39 points down in the third quarter to defeat the Western Bulldogs 18.10 (118) to 14.13 (97) at Norwood Oval on Saturday afternoon.

The reigning premiers trailed by as much as 39 early in the second half but turned the tide with a blistering 14-goal second half, led by a stunning five-goal haul from Eric Hipwood — all after the main break.

It’s the first time Brisbane Lions have started a season 5-0 in their post-Fitzroy era, and it was done in emphatic fashion, with the Lions overturning a 33-point halftime deficit in searing Adelaide heat.

Hipwood had just one touch in the first half but exploded after the break, taking over the game with three goals in the third term before adding two more in the last.

Logan Morris (four goals), Zac Bailey (three) and Callum Ah Chee (two) also stepped up in the Lions’ forward line, while Hugh McCluggage was everywhere with 32 disposals and seven score involvements.

Chris Fagan’s midfield brigade, led by Lachie Neale and Will Ashcroft, flipped the script after halftime as Brisbane dominated clearances 52-34 and owned the territory battle.

After kicking just four goals in the first half, the Lions piled on 6.1 in the third quarter alone to trail by just six points at the final change, then kicked away late with clutch finishes from Hipwood, Rayner and Ah Chee.

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The Bulldogs, who had kicked seven goals to one in the second term, faded badly despite two final-quarter goals from Matt Kennedy and Bailey Williams.

Key forward Sam Darcy impressed with two majors and a strong aerial presence but was restricted late after hobbling off with hamstring tightness. James Harmes also exited early with a foot injury.

The Lions’ defensive group held firm under late pressure as the $1.46 bookmaker favourites, while the game-defining duel between Darcy and Harris Andrews ended honours even after a fierce first-half battle.

With their fifth straight win, the Lions cement top-two status while the Dogs are left to rue another missed opportunity after their best half of the season.

Western Bulldogs vs Brisbane Lions final score

Brisbane Lions 18.10 (118)
Western Bulldogs 14.13 (97)

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