The Brisbane Lions have become a team for the ages after securing a third-straight premiership, with a stunning seven-point win over Fremantle at the MCG on Saturday, 14.12 (96) to 12.17 (89).
In cold, initially wet conditions, the Lions roared late – trailing by 17 points with four minutes to play.
However, co-captain Josh Dunkley said they were inspired by the Dockers’ “Wharfie Time”, the Lions booting the final four goals to post one of the greatest premiership victories of all time.
With a minute remaining, a clutch set shot from Logan Morris put the Lions up by just a point – Chris Fagan’s men then holding on for dear life.
Morris then capped the comeback with just eight seconds left – leaving Dockers coach Justin Longmuir distraught and his players devastated.
While Hayden Young, Shai Bolton, Murphy Reid, Luke Jackson and Sam Switkowski (in his final game) were all outstanding for the Dockers, it was a typically even team contribution for the Lions that got the job done. Will Ashcroft again shone, after winning back-to-back Norm Smith Medals in the past two grand finals.
This Lions side joined their 2001-03 brethren in capturing a three-peat of flags, ensuring their place in history as one of the greatest teams of all-time.
The dominant performance could be Fagan’s last game in charge as coach, for he had hinted on Friday this match could be his last.
More to come
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Jon Pierik is a sports journalist at The Age. He covers AFL and has won awards for his cricket and basketball writing.Connect via X or email.From our partners
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: www.smh.com.au
