The Brisbane Lions roared into history, crushing Geelong by 47 points – 18.14 (122) to 11.9 (75) – in front of 100,022 fans at the MCG to claim back-to-back premierships. Former AFL premiership player Anthony Stevens gives his take on an enthralling grand final.
It was an arm-wrestle early. At half-time the scores were level at 5.6 (36) apiece, Geelong’s system holding firm despite the loss of Tom Stewart. Sam De Koning battled bravely down back, Mark Blicavs worked in the ruck, and the Cats looked well placed.
But after the break the game flipped. Brisbane kicked 13 goals to three in a second-half blitz, their pressure overwhelming and their forward half swarming with opportunities.
Will Ashcroft, just 21, was again the standout. He gathered 31 disposals, set up multiple goals and claimed his second consecutive Norm Smith Medal. Charlie Cameron lit the forward line with three goals and trademark pace. And Logan Morris, the 20-year-old key forward, filled the Joe Daniher role – presenting, clunking packs and kicking a vital goal to open the floodgates.
Down back, Harris Andrews was a wall, intercepting and shutting down Geelong’s tall targets. In the middle, Josh Dunkley and Hugh McCluggage drove the surge, while Lachie Neale, under an injury cloud all week, came on as the substitute in the second half to steady the Lions when needed.
For Geelong, Stewart’s absence was glaring. De Koning and Blicavs carried the load, but once Brisbane’s midfield gained control, the Cats’ structure cracked under relentless pressure.
When the final siren sounded, the roar from Brisbane’s faithful was deafening. Flags waved, fans cried, and the Lions had stamped themselves as the AFL’s new powerhouse.
As someone who’s felt premiership joy, I know this: in the moment it’s pure relief and pride. Only years later do you truly appreciate what it took. Brisbane’s players will learn that truth in time. They haven’t just won a flag – they’ve etched themselves into football history, remembered for life by their supporters.
