Brisbane Lions Midfield Coach Dale Tapping believes his young side can learn plenty from Captain Dayne Beams' performance in Round 19’s loss to West Coast.
Beams’ 41 disposals, a career high, was admirable during a tough afternoon in the West for the Lions.
“Our skipper’s performance was terrific. I thought he played a terrific game. Two weeks in a row now where he has really led from the front,” Tapping said.
Jacob Allison was strong in his debut in the midfield and Tapping believes he made a smooth transition from NEAFL to Seniors.
“He had 20 disposals and shows he’s really comfortable with the level,” he said.
Sam Skinner was equally impressive in his introduction to AFL, with two goals and some heavy hits.
“His competitiveness in the forward half and his tackle pressure was really impressive,” Tapping said.
The Lions were competitive in the first quarter, only trailing the home side by 5 points at the break. But it was a different story in the second quarter as the Eagles started to spread their wings, kicking six unanswered goals.
“I think when you lose momentum it generally comes from your impact around the footy… it was pretty even at times with our contested footy and clearance rate but they started to get on top of us. We were a little bit limited in our midfield in some aspects,” Tapping said.
The Lions will welcome back Dayne Zorko’s energy and aggression in the midfield this weekend against the Western Bulldogs. Along with Jarrod Berry and Hugh McCluggage who have enjoyed a break.
“This time of the year, going into Round 20, your general fitness is more about your mental fitness,” Tapping said.
Players and coaching staff have been upbeat so far this week in their preparation
It will be a challenge, but one Tapping says the side is up for.
“Our recent history against them has been pretty good so we’re going into the game with some confidence,” Tapping said.
