While Saturday’s AFLX tournament in Sydney was very different to normal ‘footy’, it was still a great hit out for the Brisbane Lions’ squad of 12 who went through the day undefeated.

Daniel Rich was a standout in all three matches, totalling 27 disposals for the day and two Zooper goals. Rich’s penetrating left boot suited the short field perfectly and he was lethal in transitioning the Lions out of defence into attack. 

Mitch Robinson marked his return to action by impressing throughout the day with his attack on the ball and disposal efficiency top notch. His Zooper goal that sailed over 60 metres to win the first match against Richmond was a highlight.

Following almost two years in injury purgatory, Allen Christensen was solid in the three matches. Bundy tallied 26 disposals in total and kicked two valuable goals in the grand final against Sydney.

Robinson and Christensen's partner in rehab last year, Tom Bell, performed well despite the fast format of AFLX not suiting his large frame. Bell finished with 23 disposals across the three matches and had three score assists in the grand final. 

New draftee Zac Bailey was strong in his first hit out in Lions’ colours, collecting 16 disposals and kicking two Zooper goals in three matches. Bailey’s pace saw him create lots of attacking opportunities and he also impressed in defence when chasing opposition players down.

Midfielder Ben Keays had a solid day and finished with 15 disposals in two matches. 

Jacob Allison had eight inside 50s in the two matches he played, while Rohan Bewick was the only Lions player to take a contested mark at the tournament.

Tom Cutler was the Lions’ highest scorer on the day, finishing with three Zooper goals and three standard goals.

Following the tournament, Lions Coach Chris Fagan spoke to SEN and offered plenty of ideas on how the AFLX format could be improved for future editions. Fagan, who watched on from the stands in Sydney, also discussed who impressed him during the matches.