Vic News Today

Lions Survive Geelong Surge to Claim Vital Top-Four Spot

In a pulsating Thursday night encounter at GMHBA Stadium, the Brisbane Lions weathered an extraordinary comeback from Geelong to clinch a hard-fought 22-point win, 19.9 (123) to 14.17 (101). The victory not only marked Brisbane's fourth consecutive triumph but also propelled them into the top four, establishing their premiership credentials against a formidable rival.

Early Dominance and Cats' Unforgettable Fightback

The Lions exploded out of the blocks, delivering a breathtaking opening quarter that saw them kick the first eight goals of the game. A commanding 43-point lead seemed to signal an easy night for the visitors, but the reigning premiers of old, Geelong, had other ideas. The Cats launched a remarkable resurgence, particularly in the second quarter, where they piled on 6.6 to Brisbane's 1.6, slashing the deficit to a mere seven points by half-time.

The intensity of the contest was palpable, with a moment of concern seeing Lions gun Lachie Neale briefly sent off for a concussion test after an accidental knee from teammate Cam Rayner – a test he thankfully passed before returning to the fray amidst vocal crowd interaction.

Brisbane's Resolve Shines Through

Despite Geelong's spirited rally, Brisbane demonstrated impressive mental fortitude. They regrouped in the third term, reasserting their dominance by kicking eight goals to four, extending their lead to 30 points at the final change. This crucial period allowed them to maintain control and ultimately hold the Cats at arm's length throughout a tense final quarter.

Lions coach Chris Fagan praised his team's efficiency and resilience. “We were probably a little bit fortunate that we kicked really straight and they didn't, but our efficiency going inside-50 was exceptionally good,” Fagan stated. “To come here and win at this oval is a tough thing to do. It's almost worth eight points when you win here, I think. The fact that the boys were able to do that and stay mentally strong throughout the game when they were challenged was a real pleasing aspect of tonight.”

Key Performances Across the Ground

Brisbane's triumph was a team effort, but several individuals shone brightly. Young gun Will Ashcroft (32 disposals) and Lachie Neale (28 disposals) were instrumental in the midfield. Up forward, Kai Lohmann was a standout with five goals, supported by Logan Morris and Zac Bailey, who each bagged three. Connor McKenna's defensive forward role on Cats star Tom Stewart was highly effective, while Darcy Wilmot (26 touches) was superb in defence. Darcy Gardiner also performed admirably in stifling Jeremy Cameron before succumbing to a hamstring injury late in the game.

For Geelong, captain Patrick Dangerfield was magnificent, leading from the front with a five-goal haul. Bailey Smith (31 disposals) and Max Holmes (30 disposals) were prolific ball-winners, and Ollie Dempsey contributed two goals from 22 disposals on the wing. Shannon Neale also provided a crucial three-goal burst in the second quarter.

Coaches Reflect on a 'Strange Game'

Geelong coach Chris Scott acknowledged the Lions' clinical finishing. “They really took their chances. Their kicking for goal was really good and ours was poor,” Scott observed. He described the match as a “strange game” where, despite controlling more than 50% of the play, the Cats either failed to convert opportunities or made basic errors. Scott also addressed the form of star forward Jeremy Cameron, who managed just four disposals and went goalless, backing him to fight through a “flat spot” and comparing his situation to Patrick Dangerfield's interrupted start to the season.

Ladder Implications and Injury Watch

The win improves Brisbane's record to 10-6, lifting them to fourth on the ladder, while Geelong slips to fifth with a 9-7 record. This statement victory will undoubtedly boost the Lions' confidence, particularly after being heavily defeated by the Cats earlier in the season. However, both teams will be sweating on injury reports, with Max Holmes (hamstring), Darcy Gardiner (hamstring), and Zac Bailey (hamstring concern) all requiring attention.