Now a new rivalry local rivalry has been created following the introduction of the AFL’s second team in Queensland.
Like West Coast and Adelaide before them, the Brisbane Lions are the established AFL team in their State and have helped develop the code up in Queensland courtesy of its history making premiership three-peat last decade.
Lions utility Brent Staker is no stranger to local rivalries having experienced first-hand the hype surrounding the ‘Derby’ when his former club the West Coast Eagles would play the Fremantle Dockers.
The 26 year-old will now be part of history this Sunday at Southport when he lines up for the Lions against new foes the Gold Coast Suns in the first ever AFL match played between two Queensland sides.
It may only be a pre-season practice game, but Staker believes there will be plenty on the line when both teams meet.
“They’re great fun the derbys,” Staker said.
“I’ve played in quite a few with West Coast and they’re great to involved in. For Queensland, it’s a good thing to have two teams generate a bit of hype.”
“From my experience, you really have to get the wood on them early by getting a few wins on the board. It helps give you that mental edge,” he said.
“There’s no doubt that when two teams over in WA went up against each other, there a bit of extra ‘go’ in the boys.”
“It’s still new to everyone here, but I’m sure over time it will heat up.”
Staker has played in all of the Lions’ practice matches so far this pre-season and, like last season, has been trialled in a number of different positions.
“I’ve been thrown around a few positions this pre-season,” Staker said.
“It’s the right time of the year for the coaches to trial a few changes. I played in defence during the first couple of weeks and moved up forward last weekend against Melbourne. But nothing is set in stone just yet.”
“Being that versatile player, I have to be prepared for anything.”
