2021 was a tough slog for Jarrod Berry as he battled with niggling injuries, while Keidean Coleman solidified his spot in Chris Fagan’s Best 22 across half-back.
Managing just 11 games, Berry was hampered by a nagging groin injury.
With a staggered start to the season, the 23-year-old found consistency in the latter half of the year.
The big-bodied midfielder looked dangerous with ball in hand and showed his growth in Round 23 when he put on a near best-on-ground performance, kicking 3 goals as the Lions soared into the Top Four.
Having overcome his niggles, Berry will be looking to wipe the slate clean and hit the ground running in 2022.
The bash and crash mid will have a formidable partner in crime going into pre-season with Cam Rayner eyeing off his return while looking to impact in the middle of the ground.
Meanwhile, Keidean Coleman’s transition from goal sneak to half-back was one that impressed a lot of Lions fans.
After playing in the opening two rounds of the season, the 21-year-old returned to the VFL where he was trialled as a defender.
Coleman returned to Chris Fagan’s side in Round 8, where he stayed for the remainder of the season, utilising his silky left foot and impressive aerial skills to rebound off the back flank.
He was also one of the Lions best contributors through the Finals series where he showcased composure beyond his years as well as his exciting tackling pressure.
For his impressive season, Coleman was also awarded the 2021 Rookie of the Year award.
Standout Performances
Bez Lifts as Lions Soar
In a frustrating year for Jarrod Berry, there was no better time to put on a season-best performance than in Brisbane’s must-win clash against West Coast in Round 23.
With a Top Four spot on the line, ‘Bez’ starred in a 15 disposal, 3 goal effort that helped the Lions secure a double chance in September.
Providing plenty of entertainment for the sold out Gabba crowd, Berry missed a goal to sink the Eagles late in the game before earning himself a free-kick to redeem himself in a rare 7-point play that sunk the dagger into the hearts of Eagles fans.
Season Averages
Disposals – 12.5
Kicks – 6.8
Marks – 2.2
Tackles – 3.1
Total Clearances – 1.5
Coleman Lifts in the Heat of the Finals
In a coming-of-age performance, Coleman was dynamic in Brisbane’s heartbreaking one-point semi-final loss to the Western Bulldogs.
Winning 15 disposals while playing a defensive role on the dangerous Dogs small forwards, Coleman won Lions fans over with his aggression in the contest.
The most impressive moment came in the middle of the ground, when ‘Kiddy’ took on Doggies big man, Tim English in a ferocious encounter.
Season Averages
Disposals – 9
Kicks – 4.9
Handballs – 4.1
Marks – 2.4
Tackles – 1.8
