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Highlights of the Brisbane Lions’ Win Over the Gold Coast Suns:
- Historic Win:
- Chris Fagan described it as “the most amazing and courageous win” he has seen in his career.
- The Lions beat the Suns 10.19 (79) to 6.9 (45) despite severe injury setbacks.
- Injury Carnage:
- Lincoln McCarthy and Darcy Gardiner likely suffered ACL tears, leaving the team with just two men on the bench for almost three quarters.
- Brandon Starcevich (calf) was injured during the warm-up.
- Noah Answerth (concussion) was also an early loss.
- Teen Debut Hero:
- Teenager Logan Morris made his debut on 10 minutes’ notice after playing a full VFL game earlier that day.
- He managed to snag a goal but missed a few other set shots.
- First Home Win:
- This was the Lions’ first home win of the season, improving their record to 3-5.
- Star Performers:
- Dayne Zorko dominated from half-back with a career-high 39 disposals, earning his first Marcus Ashcroft Medal.
- Lachie Neale chipped in with 34 disposals.
- Oscar McInerney returned from concussion to control Suns ruckman Jarrod Witts.
- Hugh McCluggage delivered 31 touches in a damaging performance.
- Gold Coast Struggles:
- Matt Rowell was held to just 16 disposals and two clearances by Josh Dunkley.
- Ben King kicked three goals but the Suns lacked forward thrust.
- First-Half Clinic:
- The Lions led by 40 points at halftime despite missing 11 consecutive shots at goal.
- Suns Coach’s Reaction:
- Damien Hardwick admitted the Suns “got jumped” and couldn’t handle the Lions’ early heat.
- League Standings:
- The win moves the Lions to 13th, level on points with the Bulldogs, Crows, and Saints.
- The Suns sit in 10th place, just half a game behind Collingwood.
- Upcoming Fixtures:
- The Lions face a crucial trip to Adelaide next week.
- The Suns host North Melbourne and will look to bounce back.
- Other Matches:
- Fremantle beat Richmond by 54 points at the MCG.
- Western Bulldogs suffered a surprise loss to Hawthorn at Docklands.
- Tom Liberatore Injury:
- Luke Beveridge voiced concern over Tom Liberatore’s head injury, noting his previous unexplained collapse.