Allen Christensen and Nick Robertson will play their first game for the Brisbane Lions in 2019 after both were named in Senior Coach Chris Fagan’s team earlier this evening to take on Essendon on Saturday.
Christensen will replace Zac Bailey in the defensive line, after the speedster was sidelined for four to six weeks due to a hamstring injury.
Christensen was outstanding for the Lions NEAFL side in their opener against the NT Thunder in Darwin last week. Playing in the midfield, the 27-year-old had 37 disposals, one goal and two tackles in the team’s 65-point thrashing.
Robertson was the AFL team’s emergency player last week and replaces Ryan Bastinac who was omitted from the team.
The Lions will be aiming for four straight victories when they take on the Bombers on Saturday at the home of football, the MCG. This is one of just two games the Lions will play there during the regular season.
Speaking to media earlier today, Fagan said his men will not be overawed by the occasion.
“All the grounds in the AFL are fantastic to play at and we don’t get that many opportunities at the MCG so naturally enough we’re excited to be going there,” he said.
“But it’s just like any other ground really. There’s a big bit of grass with some goalposts at the end.
“Our main thing is wherever we go, we want to put our best foot forward.”
For the first time in years the Lions will host their Captain’s Run at Fitzroy’s home ground on Brunswick St Oval.
Fagan said he hoped old and new Fitzroy fans would turn up in droves.
“I would imagine it would mean a bit,” he said.
“I hope that they turn up, it would be great if they do.”
Friday's Captain’s Run at Brunswick St Oval is an open session starting at 2:30pm.
The match will be broadcasted live on Fox Sports from 2.00pm. Click here for the Match Day Information.
IN: Allen Christensen, Nick Robertson
OUT: Zac Bailey (hamstring), Ryan Bastinac (Omitted)
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