The Brisbane Lions will be looking to rebound following their loss to the Gold Coast SUNS before last weekend’s bye.
The Lions turn their attention to Williamstown as they return home to Brighton Homes Arena in Round 21 VFL action.
Lions VFL coach Ben Hudson knows his troops have reached crunch time in season 2023 and is confident they are ready to tackle the pointy end.
“The boys have had a week to reset after a tough game against one of the competition’s best teams in the Gold Coast SUNS,” he said.
“This weekend is a great opportunity against another quality opposition to keep performing toward the end of the year.
“With two games left in the home and away season we are taking every chance to build momentum.
“We are really looking forward finishing off the home and away season strongly.”
This game shapes as a battle for a spot in the top four with Williamstown in fifth and sitting two points adrift of the Lions in fourth.
Williamstown is currently on a four-game winning streak and will arrive at Brighton Homes Arena following a 22-point win over Richmond.
Players to watch
Tom Fullarton
The Lions forward-ruck has been pivotal in the forward line throughout the VFL season booting 26 goals in 13 games.
Averaging more than four marks per game along with his four-and-a-half hitouts and 14 disposals, Fullarton brings a wide range of skillsets to the Lions lineup.
Forming a formidable partnership with Wylie Buzza and Darcy Fort in the forward line, Fullarton threatens the scoreboard every week.
Darcy Gardiner
A veteran of the Lions backline, Garinder, like much of Brisbane’s side, will be looking to bounce back after the SUNS loss.
After an injury interrupted 2023, one of Gardiner’s best games came in round 18 vs Geelong collecting 19 disposals and taking eight marks.
The Lions’ defence was tested against the SUNS and will be looking for a good performance against Williamstown.
Last time we met
The Lions hosted Williamstown in Round 9 of the 2022 VFL season at Moreton Bay Sports Complex.
A seesawing affair saw the Seagulls lead by 20 points just prior to halftime before the Lions mounted a thrilling comeback to steal a two-point win.
Blake Coleman was the only multiple goal-scorer for the Lions as Tom Berry and current Williamstown midfielder Toby Triffett starred.
Rhys Mathieson led all-comers with 31 touches and 15 clearances to stake claim as the Lions best on ground.
