With the Gold Coast Suns playing some good footy in the last month, QClash 23 is shaping up to be one the fiercest battles yet.
The Lions have Brisbane has now won seven straight times against its Queensland rivals, but the Suns have taken some big scalps in 2022 and will be looking to add the Lions to their growing list.
Last time we met
Zac Bailey put on a finishing masterclass at a wet Metricon Stadium on Sunday afternoon, kicking six sizzling goals to lead Brisbane to a 52-point QClash win over Gold Coast. The teams were well matched in most areas, but Brisbane's class inside forward 50 that proved the difference in the 21.6 (132) to 11.14 (80) triumph.
Bailey was simply irresistible, turning quarter and half chances into goals to snuff out any hope the home team had of springing an upset. The Lions were simply too classy, able to overcome an inside 50 deficit of 57-53, and were rarely troubled in the slippery conditions, extending their lead at every change.
Secure your ticket to QClash 23 here.
Key Match-Ups
Brandon Starcevich vs Izak Rankine
It'll be a match up of the in-form players as Brandon Starcevich and Izak Rankine go head-to-head on Saturday.
Starcevich is in strong form, averaging 15.6 disposals a game and has stood up in an undermanned backline in the last couple of weeks. Rankine is in similar career form, kicking 11 goals in his last month of footy and a proven headache to opposition defenders with his electric speed at ground level and ability to create something out of nothing.
Heading to the game? Check out our game day guide for everything you need to know before bounce.
Lachie Neale vs Touk Miller
If this fiery clash didn't need anyone spice, the contest in the midfield between two of the games elite players is sure to add some fuel to the fire.
Neale is averaging a whopping 30.8 disposals, 7.2 clearances and 6.8 score involvements, all falling under the 'elite' category according to Champion Data.
Similar can be said about Miller, with the Suns Co-Captain averaging 28.2 disposals, 7.9 clearances and 5.6 tackles a game.
Both Neale and Miller are barometers for their respective sides and will be looking to get the upper hand early.
It's a big week for...
Ah Chee will run out for his 100th senior AFL game on the weekend, fittingly against the very team he began his career with.
The 24-year-old played 45 games with the Suns over four seasons before making the move up the highway at the end of 2019, where he's found consistent football under Chris Fagan.
Since arriving at the Gabba, Ah Chee has been a 'Mr Fix It' for Brisbane and is arguably one of the most versatile players on the Lions list with his ability to play back, wing or forward roles.
Other things happening
The Brisbane Lions will be hosting a citizenship ceremony pre-game to welcome new Australian's in celebration of Multicultural Month.
From 6:40pm, Bolivia Marker dancers will perform before a live welcome to country takes place on-field before bounce.
There will also be an African drumming performance at quarter time.
Post-match, make sure to stick around for the Marcus Ashcroft Medal ceremony and the QClash Cup presentation.
