The Brisbane Lions' NEAFL team had a tough start to their premiership defence against the NT Thunder in Darwin. The Lions went down by just one point in slippery, wet, humid conditions in their Round 1 clash.
“It’s pretty tough heading up there,” Coach Mitch Hahn told lions.com.au.
“We certainly did our best and the boys had a crack.”
The Lions were left to chase the Thunder’s tail for most of the match, after the home side got off to a flying start, kicking seven goals to four in the first quarter.
Hahn and the coaching staff were pleased with their side’s fightback in the second quarter.
“It was a brilliant effort in the second quarter. We had 17 inside 50’s to NT’s five. We kicked two goals seven.
“Our guys did well to fight back but unfortunately the boys got done in the end.”
Hahn believes a win did go begging.
“Unfortunately we just didn’t take our opportunities in that second quarter and that probably hurt us.
“We were pretty pleased with their effort and performance, but it was probably a missed opportunity in the end.”
It was a special night for draftee Zac Bailey who played his first game for his new Club in his hometown of Darwin.
“I think it was exciting for him to get back and have his family and friends see him play. He performed really well,” Hahn said.
Fellow draftee Brandon Starcevich also did well, kicking three goals. While Connor Ballenden fought through an uncomfortable cork all match.
Other strong performers included Tom Bell, Ben Keays, Jacob Allison and Liam Dawson.
Round 2 entails a grand final rematch against the Sydney Swans at home in Burpengary. It will be tough, but the Lions NEAFL side took a lot of confidence after their trip to the top end.
“It will certainly be. We always know that the Swans will be a tough matchup.”
