Brisbane Lions Secure Grand Final Spot with Victory over Geelong Cats

The Brisbane Lions have earned their place in the 2024 AFL Grand Final following a tense 10-point victory over the Geelong Cats at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The final score stood at Brisbane 14.11 (95) to Geelong 12.13 (85), witnessed by 93,066 spectators on an electrifying afternoon.

This win sets up an upcoming clash between the Lions and the Sydney Swans, marking the first time since 2006 that two non-Victorian teams will compete in the Grand Final. The Sydney Swans make their return to the Grand Final after their last appearance in 2022 ended in a loss to Geelong.

Brisbane’s Will Ashcroft expressed his disbelief and joy following the game, recalling his personal struggles with an ACL injury that had sidelined him last year. “It’s unbelievable from a personal standpoint, I can’t believe I’m here,” he told Seven Network. “The boys have stuck at it all year. We have grinded. It’s pretty raw. I can’t believe it.”

The Lions managed a comeback after trailing by 25 points early in the third quarter. Led by Lachie Neale, Hugh McCluggage, and Josh Dunkley in the midfield, Brisbane started regaining control, with Dayne Zorko also putting in a notable performance from half-back. Compensating for Oscar McInerney’s shoulder injury, Joe Daniher was moved to the ruck, allowing for a more mobile forward line that included Callum Ah Chee, Cam Rayner, Zac Bailey, and Charlie Cameron.

Brisbane forwards showcased their resilience, with key plays from Callum Ah Chee and Cam Rayner in the final quarter. Rayner, despite being quiet earlier in the game, delivered crucial goals when needed, safeguarding the Lions’ lead in the tense final minutes.

Looking ahead, Lions coach Chris Fagan faces a selection dilemma concerning ruckman Oscar McInerney, who dislocated his shoulder. Should McInerney miss the Grand Final, Daniher might continue as ruck, requiring alterations in the forward setup.

On the Geelong side, Patrick Dangerfield‘s tackle on Hugh McCluggage is under scrutiny by the Match Review Officer (MRO), following concerns it could impact his availability next season.

The thrilling match was characterized by remarkable moments such as hangers by Kai Lohmann and Cam Rayner, and a soccer-style goal involving Gryan Miers and Ollie Henry for Geelong. Another highlight included defender Jack Payne’s pivotal tackle on Geelong’s Mitch Duncan, denying a scoring opportunity late in the game.

Brisbane’s resilience, having overcome a significant deficit and the loss of McInerney, has been a testament to their depth and determination this season. They now set their sights on the Grand Final at the MCG against Sydney, aiming to rectify their previous loss on this stage.