The Brisbane Lions VFL have stormed to a 20-point victory over Essendon thanks to a six-goal final term in wet conditions at Brighton Homes Arena.
Five goals to livewire forward Will McLachlan helped lead the Lions to their sixth win in 2025 running out 18.11 (119) to 15.9 (99) winners.
The Bombers burst out of the blocks in tricky Springfield conditions, booting the opening four goals of the game inside eight minutes.
The Lions were able to respond with the next three majors courtesy of Darcy Craven and Curtis McCarthy before Essendon kicked two more goals to hold a 20-point quarter time lead.
A five goal to two second term swung momentum back in the Lions favour as the conditions continued to wreak havoc on the contest.
Two majors to Youi Brisbane Lions Academy product Fergus McFadyen, McCarthy’s second and goals to Sam Marshall and Tahj Abberley helped the Lions eat into the Bombers scoreboard advantage trailing by five points at the main break.
Harry Arnold stood tall in defence, taking nine marks, collecting 17 touches and making four tackles in a strong performance for the key defender.
The Lions midfield got to work in the second term through Deven Robertson and Jimmy Tunstill who finished with 29 touches, six clearances and 25 disposals, seven clearances respectively.
The Bombers booted the first of the second half before the game descended into a scrap.
McCarthy’s third brought the margin back to an even goal as Will McLachlan quickly tied the scores with his first.
Two quick Essendon goals swung momentum back the visitors way before Tunstill and McLachlan both bagged majors to have things evenly poised at the final break.
Tom Doedee’s strong form continued as he wracked up seven marks and 15 disposals.
With scores level going into the final term both sides traded blows in the opening 12 minutes with Youi Lions Academy member Jake Fazldeen putting the Lions in front.
Three final term majors from McLachlan, Craven’s third along with a 50m bomb from Zane Zakostelsky helping overcome a strong Bombers challenge.
The Lions will now turn their attention to Williamstown who will travel up to Brighton Homes Arena next Saturday for Round 11 Smithy’s VFL action.
Final Score
Brisbane 18.11 (119) def Essendon 15.9 (99)
Goals: McLachlan 5, McCarthy 3, Craven 3, McFadyen 2, Zakostelsky, Tunstill, Abberley, Fazldeen, Marshall
Best: Robertson, Mclachlan, Gallop, McCarthy, Brain, Tunstill