The Brisbane Lions celebrated their first win in thirteen weeks and took some of the pressure off coach Justin Leppitsch when they steamrolled a disappointing Essendon by 37 points at Etihad Stadium.
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The Lions dominated clearances and contested possession and set up their victory in the third quarter when they won the clearance count 12-2, led by Daniel Rich who had 12 possessions for the quarter. They comprehensively won the midfield battle with Dayne Zorko, Rich, Tom Rockliff and Ryan Bastinac all playing well.
Ruckman Stefan Martin may not have had as many hit outs as his counterpart and former teammate Matthew Leuenberger but he had far more influence and his taps far more effective and also had 14 contested possessions and six clearances. Former Cat Josh Walker finished with four goals from four marks.
The difference in this game was that the Lions were more efficient and made the most of their opportunities scoring 20 goals from just 54 inside 50s.
The Bombers won the inside 50 count 66-54 and had more scoring shots and labored when they got the ball inside 50. Their defence gave away far too many easy goals but that’s not to deny the Lions credit. Their pressure on the player with the ball was far better and their players showed more commitment at the contested ball.
The Bombers could have suffered an even bigger loss if not for emerging midfield star Zach Merrett who played a lone hand across the midfield. The Bombers losing run extended to 15 matches and coach John Worsfold would have been disappointed with the uncompetitive effort.
One shining light for the Bombers apart from Merrett was the debut of high draft pick Aaron Francis who finished with 16 disposals and seven marks, including a game high four contested marks.
The Lions also would have been encouraged by the performance of several youngsters. Rhys Mathieson, Eric Hipwood, Liam Dawson and Tom Cutler all showing glimpses at different stages to give the Lions some hope for the future. It included a goal of the year contender from Hipwood who showed flashes of real skill during the game.
Final score
Brisbane Lions 20-8-128
Essendon Bombers 12-19-91
The Roar’s AFL MVP votes
3. Stefan Martin (Bris) – Most of his taps were to advantage, started many of their scoring attacks and was excellent at ground level.
2. Zach Merrett (Ess) – Just didn’t stop all day, 86 per cent disposal efficiency and most of his kicks which were greater than 30 metres hit their mark.
1. Tom Rockliff (Bris) – 38 disposals and they just weren’t short sideway passes. 17 contested and game-high ten inside 50s.
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