Plenty of action between Brisbane and Southport in the scorching heat at Brighton Homes Arena on Saturday morning.
The final practice match for the Lions VFL started in quick fashion with goals to rookies Jaspa Fletcher and Shadeau Brain.
The ball movement through the middle of the ground was the highlight for much of the contest with Jarryd Lyons and Noah Answerth showing their class.
FT | Whose ready for Round 1? Lots to like from today’s performance
— Brisbane Lions VFL (@lions_vfl) March 18, 2023
🦁 85
🦈 48 pic.twitter.com/UjYPHK57Z3
Brain and Fletcher both hit the scoreboard twice in the first term as the Lions piled on five opening quarter goals.
Southport came out of quarter-time with intent but were thwarted by Wylie Buzza, who was resolute in defence for the entire game.
His intercept marking, ball-use and physicality in the contest were the highlights of his day and helped the Lions take a 27-point half-time lead.
AFL emergencies Darcy Fort and Harry Sharp did their chances of a senior call-up no harm with impressive performances.
Great to see DJ back and wow he’s not disappointing 🤩 pic.twitter.com/hXhQWYI7Tg
— Brisbane Lions VFL (@lions_vfl) March 18, 2023
VFL-listed player, Zack Derksen was entertaining in the third quarter kicking two goals, including a contest where he absorbed a big hit to take a quality mark.
Kyle Dunkley was good through the middle of the ground throughout the day and had two goals of his own.
The Lions will take Werribee next week on Saturday 25th March at Brighton Homes Arena with the first bounce at 12pm.
Final Score
Brisbane 85 def Southport 48
Best: Lyons, Answerth, Buzza, Fort, Fletcher, Dunkley
Goals: Brain x3, Fletcher x2, Derksen x2, Dunkley x2, Lane, Sharp, McDowell-White, Fullarton