Battle for Glory: Lions Roar into AFL Grand Final 2023

AFL Finals 2023: Lions book grand final showdown with Collingwood, Adams, Payne racing against the clock

Introduction

The 2023 AFL finals have been full of excitement and surprises, and now we have our grand finalists – the Brisbane Lions and Collingwood. The Lions fought hard to win their preliminary final against Carlton, overcoming a five-goal deficit in the first quarter. Meanwhile, Collingwood secured their spot in the grand final with a thrilling victory against Greater Western Sydney. As both teams prepare for the biggest game of the season, they face the challenge of dealing with injuries to key players.

The Battle for Glory

Collingwood and Brisbane have been the standout teams of the 2023 season, finishing in the top two spots on the ladder. Both teams have already had a week off through the finals, giving them time to rest and prepare for the grand final. This sets the stage for an epic clash between two formidable sides. For Collingwood, this is a chance at redemption after their heartbreak in last year’s preliminary final. They have the added motivation of wanting to make up for their loss in the 2018 grand final against West Coast. On the other hand, the Lions, under the guidance of coach Chris Fagan, have built a team that is ready to win now. They have the advantage of having home-ground advantage throughout the finals but face the challenge of winning at the MCG, the home of football.

Selection Headaches

Both teams are grappling with injuries to key players as they prepare for the grand final. Dan McStay of Brisbane has suffered an MCL injury, which will force a change in Collingwood’s lineup for the decider. Collingwood may bring in Jack Ginnivan as a small forward or John Noble as a substitute. Another option is to bring in Billy Frampton, a versatile player who can play both forward and back. This would free up Jeremy Howe to switch to the forward line. Taylor Adams is also racing against the clock to recover from a hamstring strain. The Lions, on the other hand, have no forced changes but Jack Payne is also racing against the clock to overcome an ankle injury. He could potentially replace Darcy Gardiner if he is fit. Jack Gunston remains as an emergency but could also be considered for selection.

Coach’s Words

Both Chris Fagan, coach of the Brisbane Lions, and Michael Voss, coach of Carlton, spoke to the media after their respective matches. Fagan highlighted the character and resilience of his team in their come-from-behind victory against Carlton. He emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment and acknowledged the challenge of maintaining a sense of normalcy during grand final week. Fagan expressed the hope that fans from other teams would support the Lions in the grand final. Voss, on the other hand, reflected on the disappointment of falling short of their goal but also recognized the progress his team has made throughout the season. He praised the collective effort of his players and expressed optimism for the future.

Editorial and Advice

The grand final between the Brisbane Lions and Collingwood promises to be a thrilling contest between two deserving teams. While Collingwood has the experience and the hunger for redemption, the Lions have the momentum and the home-ground advantage. It will be a battle of skill, strategy, and determination. As fans, we can expect an entertaining display of Australian Rules Football at its finest.

For Collingwood, it is important to manage their injured players wisely. Taylor Adams’ return from a hamstring strain will be crucial, and the coaching staff must assess the risk of bringing him back into the team after a 15-day break. The team should also carefully consider the selection of substitutes and backups to ensure a well-balanced lineup.

The Brisbane Lions, on the other hand, must not let the weight of expectations hinder their performance. They have shown incredible resilience throughout the season, and they must maintain confidence in their ability to win. Coach Chris Fagan’s focus on enjoying the moment and keeping the week as normal as possible will be instrumental in ensuring that the players are mentally prepared for the grand final.

To the supporters of both teams, enjoy the spectacle of the grand final. Appreciate the skill and dedication of these athletes who have worked tirelessly to reach this pinnacle of Australian Rules Football. And remember, regardless of the outcome, in true Aussie spirit, let’s come together to celebrate the game we love.