It left trump cards Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay all but toothless, at least until Carlton seized the initiative late in the contest and gave them a chance to make an impact. But by then it was too late.
Their best players were in defence, which was not surprising, given how busy they were kept. Jacob Weitering held Joe Daniher goalless and almost kickless and Adam Saad, in his 150th game, had the better of his duel with Charlie Cameron.
Zac Bailey celebrates after kicking one of his goals.Credit:AFL Pictures
Captain Dayne Zorko led from the front with his most influential game of the year, and Zac Bailey was electric with four goals. Lachie Neale, as usual, was quick and clean, and finished with 32 possessions.
The Lions’ midfield, which has been unsettled all year, lifted and dominated Carlton, especially early. Oscar McInerney’s physicality was important in the ruck, as was Mathieson at ground level, and center clearances finished 24-8 the Lions’ way.
Other fine contributors were McStay, who finished with four goals and seven marks, while Jarrod Berry and Hugh McCluggage also worked hard around the contest.
BRISBANE LIONS 4.6 8.9 13.11 17.12 (114)
CARLTON 0.1 3.4 4.8 12.9 (81)
GOALS
Bris Lions: Bailey 4, McStay 4, Cameron 2, Zorko, Hipwood, McCarthy, Neale, Berry, Robinson, Mathieson.
Carlton: Curnow 2, Motlop 2, Fisher 2, Owies, McKay, Cripps, Martin, Durdin, Newnes.
BEST
Bris Lions: Neale, Bailey, Zorko, McCluggage, McInerney, Mathieson.
Carlton: Weitering, Docherty, Saad, Walsh, Cripps, McGovern.
INJURIES
Bris Lions: Ah Chee (concussion).
Carlton: Martin (Ankle).
CROWD 31,011 at the Gabba.
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