The history, tactics and an early tip: How the Magpies v Lions grand ...

23 Sep 2023

The Age

The history, tactics and an early tip: How the Magpies v Lions grand final shapes up

Collingwood and the Brisbane Lions have been the form teams of 2023, and justifiably will play off in next week’s AFL grand final. That they finished in the top two spots on the ladder, and have already had a week off through the finals, means this shapes as an epic clash.

AFL grand final - Figure 1 — Photo The Age

The Magpies, seeking redemption for last year’s preliminary final heartache with a one-point loss to Sydney, reversed that result in a heart stopper against Greater Western Sydney on Friday night. Up to 10 players now have the chance to also make amends for the 2018 grand final heartache against West Coast.

Kicking on: Nick Daicos has a chance to forge his place in history against Brisbane on Saturday.Credit: AFL Photos

The Lions, after years of finals disappointment under Chris Fagan, are built to win now, and have enjoyed home-ground advantage throughout the finals.

Now comes a major test in winning at the home of football.

History lesson

Twenty years on, Collingwood and the Lions will renew what was a heated grand final rivalry when the likes of Michael Voss, Jason Akermanis, Jonathan Brown and Nathan Buckley dominated the footballing world.

Where the Lions prevailed in 2002 and ’03 against an opponent punching above its weight, the Magpies this time have the depth of talent to get the job done.

However, the Lions have won the past six games between the clubs, the Magpies last prevailing in 2019. The Lions won by 24 points when they last met, in round 23 at Marvel Stadium when Charlie Cameron booted four goals.

Injury report

The Magpies have concerns. Daniel McStay (knee) was hurt in Friday night’s win, the club on Saturday confirming the former Lion will be absent this week.

AFL grand final - Figure 2 — Photo The Age

Taylor Adams (hamstring) was hurt at training more than a week ago, but has resumed light running. However, coach Craig McRae said he was doubtful to return. Jeremy Howe (corked calf) played out Friday night’s game, while skipper Darcy Moore continues to manage a right wrist/thumb issue.

Lions star Lachie Neale hurt his shoulder on Saturday night, but completed the game. “This one has given me a bit of grief over the years ... but it’s a bit of stinger. All good,” Neale said.

Defender Jack Payne (ankle) was overlooked for the preliminary final, with coach Fagan saying there is no guarantee that he will be fit for the grand final. Jack Gunston (knee) has rejoined full training, and will be in contention for a recall.

Josh Dunkley flies for a mark.Credit: Getty Images

Tactics

For the Lions, they must find a way to combat any MCG psychological hoodoo, having won only one of their past 15 matches at the ‘G, although that victory was over Melbourne in last year’s finals series.

What they can rely upon is their work at the contest, for they have been the best clearance team in the competition, winning an average of six more each game than their opposition. In Neale, Hugh McCluggage and Josh Dunkley, the Lions have an elite midfield. Will Dunkley look to tag Jordan De Goey or Nick Daicos? If the Lions get first use, Joe Daniher, in career-best form, Eric Hipwood and Cameron will pick apart the Magpies’ zone defence.

What the Lions showed against the Blues is that they are prepared to work their way back into a contest, having conceded the opening five goals.

For the Magpies, they have been able to conjure victory from any position under McRae.

The loss of McStay means their forward line will need to be rejigged, perhaps with Mason Cox spending more time as a marking tall.

The Lions may not be able to stop De Goey, while McRae will need to decide whether to start Nick Daicos at half-back, or in the midfield.