Brisbane Lions premiership Co-Captain has capped off an incredible 2024 season after claiming his fourth Merrett-Murray Medal.
Neale, just days after leading the Lions to premiership glory, took out the honour at the Club Champion Dinner at The Star on Thursday night.
The star midfielder polled 73 votes to just edge out premiership veteran and 2024 All-Australian Dayne Zorko (72) by one vote.
After yet another impressively consistent season fellow midfielder Josh Dunkley finished in third place with 71 votes in a super tight count.
In Neale’s six seasons at the Lions, he has won four Merrett-Murray Medals and finished runner-up once.
Brisbane Lions senior coach Chris Fagan was full of praise for Neale following the count.
“Lachie is a remarkable player, extremely talented, but also has an incredible work ethic and desire to keep becoming the best,” Fagan said.
“He has an amazing resume which includes two Brownlow Medals, and he has come close to winning on a couple of other occasions.
“What really stood out this season is how incredibly tough and resilient he is because he played most the year with a significant foot injury.
“Yet he just kept turning up, putting in the work and not only playing through the pain but playing exceptional football.
“He is one of the best players I have coached, and I am so proud of what he has achieved and continues to achieve.”
Merrett-Murray Medal – Top 10
1. Lachie Neale - 73
2. Dayne Zorko - 72
3. Josh Dunkley - 71
4. Hugh McCluggage - 64
5. Dary Wilmot - 61
6. Ryan Lester - 60
7. Harris Andrews - 56
8. Jarrod Berry - 56
9. Joe Daniher - 56
10. Oscar McInerney – 54
10. Cam Rayner - 54
Other Awards
Rookie of the Year: Logan Morris.
Marcus Ashcroft Most Professional Player Award: Hugh McCluggage.
Shaun Hart Trademark Player of the Year: Oscar McInerney.
Players’ Player of the Year: Josh Dunkley.
Finals Player Award: Callum Ah Chee, Will Ashcroft, Lachie Neale and Brandon Starcevich.
Youi Game Changer Award: Cam Rayner.
Life Memberships: Nicole Duncan and Harris Andrews.
