It’s set to be a Friday night blockbuster as the Brisbane Lions venture south to take on Geelong at GMHBA Stadium.

If their recent encounters are anything to go by, spectators can expect a fiery battle as the 3-0 Lions look to get their first win at the Cats home ground since 2004. For Geelong, they’ll be looking to continue their form that saw them overcome Collingwood last week in an arm wrestle.

Back Where it All Started

If Joe Daniher’s return to Marvel Stadium in Round 2 was an indication of the reception players receive when returning to their old stomping ground, Nakia Cockatoo and Darcy Fort should expect nothing less.  

Nakia Cockatoo will face his old side for the first time at GMHBA Stadium after being traded to the Lions in late 2020. The livewire forward will be keen to put his best foot forward against his ex-teammates and continue to his impressive form since returning to footy midway through last year.

For Darcy Fort, Friday night presents a unique opportunity. With Oscar McInerney serving a one-match suspension, Fort will lead the ruck duties against his old side. Traded from Geelong at the end of 2021, all eyes will be on the 28-year-old. Against an in-form Rhys Stanley, it’ll be a challenge, but with an impressive start to the season, Fort would love to put his best foot forward in front of a hostile Geelong crowd.

The GMHBA Hoodoo

Last time Geelong met Brisbane at GMHBA, it was a one-point showstopper as the two teams went blow-for-blow.

In a heated encounter, Zac Bailey tackled Mark Blicavs late in the fourth quarter in what many considered a holding the ball free kick. Geelong then rebounded and Isaac Smith was the game winner, kicking a late goal to ice the game for the home side.

Bailey found his redemption the next week, famously kicking an after-siren goal to sink Collingwood at Marvel Stadium, but the Lions will be keen to redeem themselves at GHMBA this week.

It’s been 19 years since Brisbane has won in Geelong. Last time the Lions beat the Cats on their home deck, Nigel Lappin collected 39 disposals and would later play a key role in Brisbane’s historic three-peat dynasty later that year.

Richy 250

Brisbane Lions veteran, Daniel Rich will notch up his 250^th game this Friday night.

The 31-year-old enjoyed a career best year in 2021, earning himself a spot in the All-Australian side.

Since his debut in 2009, Rich has been a fan favourite with his cannon of a left foot, courageous defensive efforts, and long blonde locks.

On the milestone, the man of the hour said he was simply ‘humbled and honoured’ to reach game 250.

“It’s a massive privilege to reach 250 games. Obviously, I’ve been through a lot with this footy club, lots of ups and downs but I’m so proud of where we are now.

“To be at one club as well, I’m really proud of the loyalty I’ve shown Brisbane, but I owe the club a lot more than it owes me.

“As much as it’s a footy club, it’s as much about relationships and the friendships. We’ve got a great group of people across the board getting it done so I’m proud of how far the club has come.”