What changed
2026-07-26 08:03 UTC → 2026-08-06 09:33 UTC ·
added
removed
In late July the The Brisbane Lions have kept their dominant run alive, registering a seventh consecutive victory by beating Port Adelaide by 59 points at momentum, adding wins over the Gabba (126‑67). The win lifted Sydney Swans (43‑point margin at the Lions to fourth place, a game clear of Adelaide with four rounds remaining, Gabba), Essendon (90 points) and cemented their status as pre‑finals favourites in their bid for a third straight premiership. Midfielder Hugh McCluggage, who missed the first five games of the season with calf injuries, is now described as “close to returning to All‑Australian form”. He contributed solid disposals in the recent wins over Essendon, West Coast and Port Adelaide, adding 29 disposals, five clearances and a goal in (93‑69 at Optus Stadium) to the latest match. Forward earlier Port Adelaide triumph that took their streak to seven games. Key contributors have been forward Kai Lohmann, after a conversation with McCluggage, broke who has matched his early‑season 2024 goal drought, scoring 12 goals tally in his last three games far fewer matches, and reaching 36 for the year. His surge, alongside Zac Bailey’s three‑goal effort midfielders Hugh McCluggage and Will Ashcoln’s 30‑touch, 2‑goal game, helped the Ashcroft, both posting 29‑plus disposals and clearances as McCluggage nears his All‑Australian best form after early‑season calf setbacks. Lions dominate the second half captain Dayne Zorko, defender Charlie Cameron and extend their streak. A post‑match incident involving ruckman Ty Gallop drew MRO scrutiny, but it did not alter Sam Draper have also featured prominently, while Chad Warner and Lachie Neale added multiple goals and high possession counts. The side remains a pre‑finals favourite, sitting in the result, leaving top four and a game clear of Adelaide. Looking ahead, Brisbane firmly will test their “superpowers” against Geelong, who sit one spot higher on track the ladder, and later host Hawthorn in a top‑four showdown, despite injury concerns for another championship. McCluggage (calf) and Keidean Coleman (concussion). Coach Chris Fagan continues to stress defensive discipline while the squad aims for a third consecutive premiership.