The efforts of the young cubs in the Brisbane Lions’ breakthrough win over Carlton gave a tantalising glimpse into the future for fans.
There were a total of eight 1st, 2nd and 3rd players who started against the Blues at the Gabba – and they averaged almost 18 possessions and 6 marks between them, along with a total of 6 goals.
Marco Paparone racked up 12 kicks and 12 handballs plus 7 marks, while Tom Cutler also had 24 touches, along with 8 marks and a long bomb on the run to goal in the first half.
Sam Mayes, playing his 50th game, was in everything early in the game, kicking two majors and a behind while racking up 20 possessions and 6 marks. Lewy Taylor was also prominent, providing plenty of run and carry.
First-years Liam Dawson (18 touches, 5 marks) and Harris Andrews (16 touches, 6 marks), both graduates of the Hyundai Help For Kids Lions Academy, were both prominent again down back.
Dawson’s disposal was outstanding – a number of penetrating long kicks repeatedly hitting the mark – while Andrews’ anticipation, marking ability and cool head again showing why he earned a NAB Rising Star nomination a fortnight ago.
Billy Evans was also effective with his 7 possessions when he came on as the sub in the final quarter.
Probably most exciting to Gabba fans this week was the three goals and six strong marks from key forward Jono Freeman, working his way back to full fitness after injury sidelined him for the entire season.
Freeman, who could be a chance for a NAB Rising Star nomination of his own this week, said he was happy to be back on the field after his back and ankle problems.
“You can see in the boys’ faces that they really enjoyed that win,” Freeman told lions.com.au
“And it’s good for the fans too because it’s been a long year for them.
“I really wanted to make sure I worked hard and it was good to have big Westy down there as well to give me a bit of a chop out.
“The forward line functioned really well and the boys up the ground moving it inside 50 was really clean which makes my job pretty easy.”
