Brisbane Lions Secure Back-to-Back AFL Wins with Dominant Display Against Collingwood
The Brisbane Lions have notched consecutive AFL victories, delivering a stunning 54-point defeat to Collingwood in their Easter Thursday clash at the Gabba. The match began with a late blow for the Magpies as star midfielder Nick Daicos was scratched due to a calf injury, setting the tone for a challenging evening.
Lions Roar to Victory with Impressive Team Effort
Brisbane, the two-time defending premiers, rocketed clear early with five straight goals, establishing a lead they never relinquished. Despite some wastefulness in front of goal, the Lions maintained control, ultimately cantering to a 17.17 (119) to 10.5 (65) win. This result reversed a 52-point loss from the corresponding fixture 12 months ago, marking a significant turnaround for the team.
Key recruits Sam Draper and Oscar Allen were instrumental in the victory. Draper, making his best outing since returning from foot and Achilles injuries, recorded five clearances and provided a strong presence in the ruck. Allen, who moved from West Coast, impressed with three goals and showcased his aerial ability with several high-flying pack marks.
Allen Finds His Footing in Brisbane's Forward Line
Oscar Allen expressed his growing comfort in the Lions' forward setup, crediting the support from coach Chris Fagan and teammates. "They probably knew it'd take me a while to work into it. I've had a pretty interrupted run the last couple of years but just stoked to get out here," he said. Fresh off his 27th birthday, Allen added that young teammates like Kai Lohmann have energized him, and he is loving his time in Brisbane.
Injury Woes for Both Sides
Collingwood faced adversity with Daicos' late withdrawal, his first missed game since late 2023, joining captain Darcy Moore and veteran Scott Pendlebury on the casualty list. However, the Lions were also understrength, missing Hugh McCluggage, Harris Andrews, Darcy Gardiner, Dan Annable, and Noah Answerth due to injury or suspension.
Statistical Dominance and Game Highlights
The Lions dominated key statistics, collecting 131 contested possessions to Collingwood's 93 and taking 20 marks inside 50 compared to the visitors' five. After a 5.0 goal surge in the second quarter gave Brisbane a 36-point lead, they kept the Magpies in the match with missed opportunities before steadying.
- Will Ashcroft led with a game-high 36 disposals, including a left-footed wonder goal that steadied the ship before halftime.
- Kai Lohmann kicked four goals, with two in the first three minutes, while Logan Morris contributed three goals and took nine marks.
- Collingwood's Dan McStay kicked four goals against his former club, and Josh Daicos gained 722 metres from 25 possessions.
Despite a brief resurgence from Collingwood with goals by Jordan De Goey and Tim Membrey, the Lions sealed the win in the fourth quarter. Morris and Zac Bailey extended the lead to 39 points, putting the contest to bed before late goals piled on.
This victory improves the Lions' record to 2-2, level with Collingwood, following their recent defeat of St Kilda at Marvel Stadium. The team's cohesive performance and resilience highlight their potential as contenders in the AFL season.
