The Brisbane Lions return home this week to tackle the Richmond Tigers in a mouth-watering VFL matchup.
A draw against Sandringham last week solidified the Lions within the top two on the ladder, now half a game behind the Gold Coast Suns.
While Richmond will travel to Brighton Homes Arena following the bye last weekend, with their last win coming against Sandringham the week prior.
An upbeat Lions VFL coach, Ben Hudson, said he was proud of his side’s ability to comeback, despite being four goals down late in the last quarter.
“A draw is pretty rare these days, but the boys showed some great resolve to fight back late in the game,” he said.
“Not sure how many places we will get conditions like that, and it made it tough but both teams had to deal with them and to Sandringham’s credit they did a good job early in the game.
“We are back at home this week in the warm Queensland sun which will be a welcome return.
“Richmond is a good side, but the boys always relish the opportunity to play in front of the home fans and will be raring to go on Friday.”
Players to watch
Kyle Dunkley
A new face to the Club in 2023, Dunkley has moved to become a pure inside midfield role in the last few weeks to cover the loss of Rhys Mathieson.
Dunkley has taken his opportunity with both hands, averaging over 18 disposals in the past four weeks including a 25-possession game against Sydney in Round 13.
Alongside Jarryd Lyons, Dunkley is set to be a key cog in the Lions midfield against the Tigers.
Henry Smith
The versatile ruckman has made consistent contributions to the Lions side since returning from injury in Round 7.
Playing both as a forward and a ruck, Smith has provided the Lions with an avenue to goal booting six majors in seven matches.
Three goals against Coburg along with 11 touches, five tackles and 12 hitouts saw Smith have one of his best outings for the season, so far.
Last time we met
The Lions travelled to the Swinburne Centre in 2022 to take on the Tigers.
A 25-point win saw the Lions bounce back from a two-point defeat to the Suns the week before.
Two goals to Kai Lohmann, Ryan Lester and Mitch Cox helped the Lions over the line.
Talented youngster Jimmy Tunstill starred with 29 disposals and six clearances while Lohmann took 11 marks to go with his two goals.
First bounce from 11:05am at Brighton Homes Arena.
