Can Brisbane’s talented youngsters carry the burden and spark a rise up the AFL ladder?
Brisbane are certainly capable of improving on last season’s 13th-place finish but the emergence of a number of promising midfield players will be heavily relied upon to do so.
The Lions’ already talent-laden midfield of veteran Simon Black, Tom Rockliff and Daniel Rich will only be boosted by the enormous improvement of Jack Redden, who was outstanding last year, Dayne Zorko, former Melbourne onballer Brent Moloney and some pinch hitting from defenders such as Pearce Hanley and Andrew Raines.
Throw in the inexperienced Josh Green, Claye Beams and number 12 draft pick Sam Docherty and there are a decent number of proficient players rotating through the middle for Michael Voss.
It will be in the centre of the ground where the Lions will win and lose matches, as they will require plenty of ball going forward in order to kick winning scores with a suspect forward line.
Obviously a lot hinges on the form of skipper Jonathan Brown, who shrugged off a number of niggles to end up with 47 goals last season. The powerful forward needs plenty of assistance inside 50 and it’s difficult to see where exactly that will come from, especially with the possibility of Daniel Merrett returning to defence to assist reigning club champion Joel Patfull.
The loss of ruckman Ben Hudson will provide a gap but Matthew Leuenberger’s return from injury should fill that void and allow the aforementioned centre line to get first use of the Sherrin.
There is plenty to like about a number of other youngsters including Sam Mayes, Rohan Bewick, Jared Polec, Mitch Golby, Marco Paparone, Patrick Karnezis and Billy Longer but it remains to be seen if Voss’ inexperienced brigade can produce consistently at the top level.
With a limited array of quality players outside the top 22, it could be a so-so season for Brisbane if injuries happen to hit and I’m tipping them to finish around the same position as they did in 2012.
Key players
Jonathan Brown – The inspirational skipper does not have as much influence as in the past but is still a key factor for the Lions.
Tom Rockliff – Now an elite midfielder, the 2011 Best and Fairest winner is vital to Brisbane’s midfield setup.
Daniel Rich – Ball winner with a damaging left boot. Always prepared to put his body on the line.
Break out potential
Jared Polec – Now in this third season. Whisper is that he hasn’t been in great shape in the early stages of his career but with some extra professionalism can become a star.
Matthew Leuenberger – Back from injury and ready to become an All-Australian ruckman.
Mitch Golby – 21 games defender/midfielder whose 2012 campaign was ended prematurely by a foot injury. With fitness will become a more consistent performer.
Promising youngsters
Patrick Karnezis – Tall half-forward capable of pushing into midfield. 18 AFL games thus far and could become a valuable contributor in 2013.
Sam Mayes – Forward who is being tipped to spend some time developing in midfield. Great credentials and highly-rated at Brisbane.
Sam Docherty – Number 12 pick from Phillip Island is fully fit after a hip injury which limited his 2012 pre-season. Possesses poise and superb skills out of defence.
Key inclusions
Brent Moloney – Bullocking midfielder from Melbourne. Career-best 2011 saw him take out Demons’ Best and Fairest and poll well in the Brownlow (19 votes). Will add grunt to the Lions’ midfield
Stefan Martin – Also from Melbourne, the athletic ruckman missed most of 2012 with a hip problem. Could add some spark both in the middle and around the ground.
Notable departures
Josh Drummond – retired
Ben Hudson – Collingwood
Amon Buchanan – retired
Predicted finish: 13th
Have a punt on the Lions:
Jack Redden – Most Super Coach points for Mids, Group 3: $8
Brisbane to win NAB Cup: $7
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