LIONS SHARING THE LOAD

LAURENCE ROSEN

As the 2023 season continues to unfold, Brisbane is emerging as one of the key contenders.

The Lions took another step forward last season, winning two finals but ultimately falling short of making the Grand Final.

But after eight rounds this season, Chris Fagan’s side has shown they’re made of tougher stuff and are playing with an added verve.

Much of that success has stemmed from their recruits, while there has been a pleasing level of natural improvement.

Jack Payne has cemented himself as a key cog of Brisbane’s defence, taking the best forward each week and allowing fellow defenders Harris Andrews and Conor McKenna to play a more attacking game and excel as a result.

Then there’s the off-season additions, led by Josh Dunkley who played his best game for the Lions in their 26-point win over Carlton last week.

Fagan said Dunkley’s 33-diposal, 13-tackle and 11-mark game was one of the great individual performances he has seen.

“I’ve got to say it is one of the great games I’ve ever seen,” Fagan said.

“If you weigh it all up, he played on (Patrick) Cripps all night, he had 33 touches, he had 13 tackles and he kept Cripps to a quiet game.

“I would have settled for Cripps having a quiet game, to be honest with you. Josh’s influence on the contest was exceptional.

“His leadership since he got to the club has been outstanding. He is happy to roll his sleeves up and do a role for the team.

“He sets a great example to everyone in that regard; he studied Cripps all week and Josh did one of the really great offensive and defensive performances, I reckon.”

With another big game to come this Saturday night against Essendon back in the home comforts of the Gabba, the Lions are humming and are giving the football world plenty to think about as we tick into the next phase of the season.