Well Lions fans, here it is… SEPTEMBER!
In a year that arguably has felt like one intense rollercoaster ride, our boys are ready to face off against the Blues in September for the second straight year, this time in an elimination final.
For the victor the road to the holy grail continues, the loser its curtains on season 2024. Get ready Lions fans, as we preview this week’s do or die elimination final!
Last Time We Met
Opening Round: Carlton 13.8 (86) d Brisbane 12.13 (85)
Despite building a commanding 46-point lead early in the second quarter, the boys were unable to hold off a fierce Carlton comeback. Hugh McCluggage opened the scoring with a brilliant boundary-line goal, followed by majors from Dayne Zorko and Charlie Cameron, as Brisbane stormed to a 32-point lead by quarter-time. Cal Ah Chee's sharp snap added to the momentum as they extended the lead to 46 points early in the second term, seemingly on track for a comfortable win.
However, Carlton slowly turned the tide, with Charlie Curnow and David Cuningham kicking crucial goals to wrestle back some control. The Lions struggled to stem the flow, as the Blues piled on eight consecutive goals and regained midfield dominance through George Hewett, Adam Cerra, and Patrick Cripps.
Brisbane were able to respond, with Joe Daniher reclaiming the lead late in the game and Charlie Cameron kicking a crucial goal with just five minutes remaining. Although, it was Harry McKay who delivered the final blow with his calm set shot from 45 metres which sealed the game.
However, with just two losses since the round 12 bye, our boys go into the finals as one of the competition's form teams. Come Saturday night there will be plenty to unfold to see who walks away victorious in this elimination final blockbuster!
Excited About
Footy in September!
We are PUMPED to be heading into another finals campaign, and like all passionate Lions fans, we know there’s no better time than footy in September. This marks our sixth consecutive year in the finals since 2019—a testament to the dedication of Fages and the entire team. As we gear up for the 2024 finals series, we’re ready to "Believe", confident that we can achieve something special and make this finals campaign one to remember!
Going to the Elimination Final at the Gabba against the Blues? Plan your trip →
Match-ups we're keen for
Where do we even begin…
Two key matchups that will take centre stage for the third time in 12 months will be Josh Dunkley vs Patrick Cripps and Charlie Cameron vs Adam Saad. Patrick Cripps and Josh Dunkley are set to renew their fierce midfield rivalry, with Cripps’ strength and ball-winning ability (averaging 28.7 disposals and 8.1 clearances) clashing against Dunkley’s relentless tackling and two-way running. Both have been pivotal in previous encounters, and this battle will well and truly again shape which side claims midfield dominance.
Meanwhile, Charlie Cameron versus Adam Saad promises to be another thrilling showdown. Cameron is coming off his best game for the club since round 10, kicking three goals and gathering 14 disposals in our round 24 win against the Bombers. Cameron's electrifying speed and goal sense will go head-to-head with Saad’s elite defensive skills and rebound. So whichever match-up you have your eyes on, hold onto your seats footy fans as this shapes to be yet another classic.
