Brisbane Dominates Essendon in a 64-Point Victory
In a stunning display of dominance, the reigning AFL premiers Brisbane delivered a crushing 64-point victory over struggling Essendon at Marvel Stadium. The Lions’ performance was nothing short of impressive, with their strong first-quarter performance setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Brisbane kicked away in the third quarter, scoring seven goals to one, which extended their lead to an astonishing 69 points at the final change. They eventually secured a comfortable win with a score of 22.11 (143) to 11.13 (79) on Saturday.
The Lions demonstrated exceptional skill and precision throughout the game, making pinpoint passes and accumulating an extraordinary 163 marks. Their control of the game was evident from the start, as they piled on six goals to one in the first term, never looking troubled by the opposition.
Brisbane coach Chris Fagan acknowledged the team’s performance after the game, admitting that they had too many marks at halftime. He explained that the team hadn’t been taking the game on quickly enough and had been “kicking the ball around” too much. However, he praised the adjustments made at halftime, stating that the team “sharpened up in the second half and got the balance right.”
Several key players contributed to the Lions’ success. In-demand free agent Zac Bailey, Logan Morris, and Kai Lohmann each kicked four goals, while dashing defender Darcy Wilmot delivered a standout performance with 32 possessions and one long-range goal. Bailey, who was named an All-Australian last year, continued his impressive form, following up a strong performance against Adelaide as he weighs significant free-agency offers at the end of the season.
Teenage debutant Cody Curtin showed promise as a key forward, providing support in the ruck after coming in for injured recruit Oscar Allen. Meanwhile, high-profile Essendon defender Ben McKay had another quiet outing, continuing to face criticism after his performance on Anzac Day.
McKay received strong bronx cheers from the Essendon faithful whenever he touched the ball in the second half. Essendon coach Brad Scott commented on the situation, describing it as an “abnormal footy environment.” He noted that while it was uncomfortable, it was not uncommon and had happened to other players at other clubs. He encouraged McKay to “fight through it.”
Unfortunately, the Bombers faced some setbacks during the match. Midfielder Jye Caldwell was ruled out in the third quarter due to an ankle injury, and wingman Saad El-Hawli broke his collarbone. However, there was a rare positive for the Bombers with the return of utility Nik Cox, who played his first game in 630 days after dealing with concussion issues. Cox scored a goal late in the final quarter and was mobbed by his teammates.
Emerging forward Nate Caddy had a chance to have a career-best day but struggled with his kicking, finishing with 3.5 against the strong Lion defense.
After moving to 5-3 for the season, the Lions will host Carlton at the Gabba next Friday night. However, they will be without Ty Gallop, who suffered a concussion, and veteran Linc McCarthy, who is dealing with hamstring tightness and is also in doubt for round nine.
Essendon, now sitting at 1-7, will travel to face GWS at Engie Stadium next Saturday.
