Round 7 - St Kilda vs Brisbane Lions
Marvel Stadium, Melbourne
The Brisbane Lions had us on the edge of our seats in 2023. There were thrilling highs, a couple of gut-wrenching dips, and a final loop that left us wanting more
In 2023, the Brisbane Lions didn't quite snag that shiny premiership cup, falling short by just four points against Collingwood in the Grand Final. It stung, no doubt about it. But let's not drown in sorrow because there's a silver lining in them stormy clouds.
The Lions treated their fans to a spectacle this year. A deep dive into the finals and a stellar home season – it's the kind of stuff that fuels optimism. A report card? They get a solid A. Not bad at all.
The Sporting News took a magnifying glass to Brisbane's 2023 season, and the burning question was: Did they over or underachieve? The Lions were aiming high with new blood like Josh Dunkley, and No. 2 pick Will Ashcroft was injected into the midfield, and ex-Hawk Jack Gunston was promising glory. Falling just one goal short of the AFL flag? That's like acing the semester but missing the valedictorian spot.
Injuries tried to rain on the parade, but Dunkley turned out to be the MVP of the squad, fitting in like a glove. The bloke's got future-contender written all over him.
What clicked for these roaring Lions? Well, the Gabba was their fortress. Thirteen home wins, including victories over the big guns like Collingwood, Port Adelaide, and Melbourne, and a jaw-dropping comeback against Carlton. The Gabba was practically their lion's den – opponents, beware.
But let's not kid ourselves; it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. That Grand Final had its share of heartbreaks – a dodgy advantage call, a couple of brutal 50-meter penalties, and Bobby Hill turning into a small forward juggernaut for Collingwood. Brandon Starcevich, mate, you're probably still having nightmares.
Picking the Brisbane Lions' MVP is like choosing your favourite type of pizza – impossible. Harris Andrews, Lachie Neale, and Charlie Cameron pulled their weight. Neale snagged a surprise Brownlow Medal, making him the man of the moment. Barely edging out his mates, but hey, a win's a win.
So, Lions faithful, dry those tears, and polish those scarves because 2024 is looming. With Dunkley in the engine room, a fortress called the Gabba, and a hunger for redemption, who knows – next year might just be the Lions' year to roar.
The offseason for Lions fans has been a rollercoaster of emotions. The Grand Final drama is on repeat in your minds, like a song you can't shake off. The dread of being runners-up, closer than ever but not close enough. Winners might not get questioned about how they won; it's all about that 'yes' when it comes to Collingwood and 2023.
So, what about 2024? Is it a "new year, new me" scenario for the Lions? Not really. They're rolling into the next season with the same crew, maybe a bit wiser and definitely hungrier. That sting from almost tasting victory – could that be the secret sauce to push them over the summit this time?
Now, the holidays are done, and it's back to the grind. AFL players are strapping on their boots, hitting the turf, and getting ready for the 2024 showdown. And you know what they say – this is where premierships are born, where lists come together, and where dreams start turning into reality.
First up, we've got Eric Hipwood. One kick short, and suddenly, the spotlight's on him. Does he owe the team one? Well, as much as anyone who fell below par in that final clash. It's harsh to point fingers, but the guy's probably itching to make amends.
Then there's Joe Daniher – the man who grew up in 2023. No longer the goofy kid from Essendon, he's a seasoned player with a taste for goals and a knack for ruck duties. Injury-free and hitting the big 3-0, Daniher's like a fine wine, getting better with time.
Keidean Coleman, the young gun, hit his ceiling in the first half of the Grand Final. But the second half? Not so much. Lessons were learned, and now, in 2024, the question is: Can he break through those defensive shackles and keep soaring?
Cam Rayner's got us wondering – should he spend more time on the ball? In those crucial moments when you need someone to power through and make things happen, Rayner might just be the answer. A bit like Jake Stringer for Essendon in 2021, bringing that punch and power to the midfield could be Rayner's calling.
And then, there's Tom Doedee, returning from a knee reconstruction. The Lions might have to be patient – expectations could be high, but ACL recovery has its stages. Let's not hitch our wagons just yet; 2025 might be the year of Doedee.
So, Lions fans, buckle up for 2024. The journey continues, and who knows, this might just be the year the Lions roar to the top. After all, it's a long season, and as they say, it's not about how you start; it's about how you finish.
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