The Brisbane Bears’ 1996 semi final win against Carlton at the Gabba, will be etched in the club’s history as one of their most significant games.
John Northey led the Bears to victory 26.14.170 - 10.10.73, defeating the Blues by a whopping 97 points.
The game was to be the Bears’ last win, before they merged with Fitzroy to become the Brisbane Lions.
It showcased Brisbane’s raw talent that would later contribute to premiership success as the Brisbane Lions.
Alastair Lynch dominated the forward line, finishing with seven goals, while Craig McRae finished with five and Darryl White chipped in with three.
Marcus Ashcroft was a standout in the midfield, finishing with 34 disposals and six tackles, while Craig Lambert and Nigel Lappin both gathered 25 touches each.
Michael Voss was injured in this game, and would miss the following week's final against the Kangaroos.
Despite being beaten by the Kangaroos in the preliminary final, it was the Bears' best season in the Club's short history.