EASTER THURSDAY BLOCKBUSTER!
There is no better way to start your Easter long weekend than with a blockbuster clash at the Gabba against a fierce rival. The stakes are high, almost finals like, as both teams look to right the wrongs of the last couple of weeks and get their seasons back on track with a much-needed win.
There’s plenty to unpack with this one!
So, put the kettle on, open that bag of easter eggs you’ve been hiding from the family and settle in for this week’s match preview.
Last Time We Met
Last time: Collingwood 12.18 (90) d Brisbane 13.8 (86), Grand Final 2023
Yes, we hate to say it but the last time we faced the Pies was Grand Final Day and yes, we know things didn’t go quite to plan. However, this is a new season, a clean slate and even though both grand finalist from the previous year have not had an ideal start to season 2024, there is everything to play for.
A return to the Gabba, not to mention having won our last four encounters at home against Collingwood, will be a boost for our boys as they look to bounce back in what is the Grand Final rematch.
Excited About
Starce’s Milestone!
It’s an exciting time for one of our Lions, with Brandon Starcevich set to run out for his 100th AFL game tomorrow night!
Starce has been a stalwart in the Lions back six since making his debut in 2018 and has come off another strong season in 2023, which saw him finish top five in our club Best and Fairest.
Often tasked with handling the best small forwards in the competition, Starce looks set for another big match-up come Thursday night with Collingwood’s crafty small forward, Bobby Hill. Starcevich’s trademark competitive flair and athleticism both on the ground and in the air, that has made him an iconic figure of our defensive fifty line-up, will be on full display as the pair go head-to-head.
Match-ups we're keen for
Where do we even begin.
Everywhere you look across the ground on Thursday night there will be match-up you won’t want to take your eyes off.
Daniher vs Moore, Dunkley vs De Goey, Cameron vs Maynard, Andrews vs Mihocek. The Easter eggs just keep on coming. Excuse the pun.
One that stands out though....
Lachie Neale vs Nick Daicos
What’s not to like about this one! The reigning Brownlow medallist up against arguably one of the best up-and-coming midfielders in the competition and both will go toe-to-toe in the engine room where the battle will be at its fiercest.
The 247-game veteran Neale has averaged 25 disposals, 5 clearances and 2 tackles to kickstart 2024. Meanwhile, Daicos having just notched game 50 last week has picked up where he left off last season, averaging 31 disposals, 6.7 clearances and 2.7 tackles.
Who gets the chocolates is anyone’s guess, but we can wait to feast our eyes on this Easter Thursday classic!
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