THE BRISBANE Lions have extended their unbeaten streak to six games and booked a spot in the inaugural NAB AFL Women's Grand Final by defeating the Western Bulldogs in stifling conditions on Saturday morning.
As the temperature heated up in Brisbane, so did the contest between the two sides, with the Dogs coming back from a 17-point half-time deficit to be within a kick heading into the final quarter.
However, as they have so often during this season, the Lions found something extra in the final term to keep the Dogs scoreless running out 2.11 (23) to 2.4 (16) winners.
Lions skipper Emma Zielke and Emily Bates were both prolific around the ground for the home side, racking up 29 disposals between them.
Bulldogs priority pick Emma Kearney looked a class above the rest on the day, amassing 30 disposals for the away side in a gritty performance.
Carlton’s loss on Friday night coupled with this win puts the Lions in a strong position to host the Grand Final in two weeks time.
BRISBANE LIONS 0.2 2.6 2.8 2.11 (23)
WESTERN BULLDOGS 0.1 0.1 2.4 2.4 (16)
GOALS
Brisbane Lions: McCarthy, Wuetschner
Western Bulldogs: Lambert 2
BEST
Brisbane Lions: Zielke, Harris, Stanton, Ashmore, Virgo, Frederick-Traub
Western Bulldogs: Kearney, Lambert, Blackburn, Spark, Scott
INJURIES
Brisbane Lions: Nil
Western Bulldogs: Lamb (concussion)
Reports: Nil
Umpires: Strybos, Belina, Pell
Estimated crowd: 4,200 at South Pine Sports Complex (Brisbane)
