No Black and Brown usually ensures the Brisbane Lions are left black and blue.
But Lions coach Michael Voss says his re-energised team finally have the self belief to win without gun duo Simon Black and Jonathan Brown.
And just as well.
In a game billed as their most important since their 2009 AFL finals campaign, the Lions (12th; 7-9) again look set to be without the veteran pair when they try to keep their faint finals hopes alive in a must-win away clash with Port Adelaide on Sunday.
The challenge was made that much tougher when classy Irish import Pearce Hanley was ruled out for up to a month with a hand fracture on Tuesday.
Still, Brisbane are buzzing after their gritty 19-point last round win over Melbourne in Darwin – the first time a Brisbane side without veterans Black and Brown had emerged triumphant since round one in 2005.
To stay in the finals mix the Lions will hope history repeats in Adelaide this weekend with Black (groin) and Brown (hip) unlikely starters against Port.
Voss could not predict a comeback date for Brownlow Medallist Black but said Brown was more likely to return next week against St Kilda.
Black has not played since round 14 while Brown missed a last round win over Melbourne that has given the Lions a timely shot in the arm despite Hanley also being added to the injury list.
Asked if his players were now confident they could win without their veteran duo, Voss said on Tuesday: “Absolutely.
“They are playing more games together, they are confident in their capability and our depth.
“When that comes together you can start playing with more instinct and flair.
“But it’s taken a bit of time so that’s why we are not taking anything for granted right now.”
Hanley’s loss will also keep the Lions’ feet on the ground.
He has been ruled out for two to four weeks after injuring his right hand against Melbourne.
But after the Lions overcame a horror 4-8 season start, it seems the future could not be brighter for Voss.
“I am pleased the topic of conversation is around where some of our group is growing,” he said.
“It’s not lost on us that Brown and Black have played a significant role in our history.
“But now it is about our team going forward and we have seen some exciting moments.
“Those are the things that I enjoy, the evolution of our team.”
Still, Voss said the notion of the Lions – who are two wins outside the top eight – playing finals this year was “ridiculous”.
“It still fits into that basket for me,” he said.
“Two weeks ago we were still trying to bank back-to-back wins.”
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