On a high-stakes night at Princes Park, the Brisbane Lions’ hopes for consecutive AFLW premierships were shattered by a commanding North Melbourne side. The Lions vs Kangaroos clash ended in a decisive victory, with the final score of 5.9 (39) to 1.3 (9) showcasing the Kangaroos’ dominance.
Read: Springfield Resident Advocates for Minorities in 2025 Miss Galaxy Australia Pageants
North’s midfield dominance
Despite the Lions’ renowned defensive pressure, they were overwhelmed by North Melbourne’s midfield brilliance, spearheaded by the unstoppable Jasmine Garner. Brisbane’s coaching team tried every trick in the book, with Jade Ellenger and captain Breanna Koenen taking turns to curb Garner’s influence. Yet the North Melbourne star couldn’t be contained, amassing 35 disposals, 22 contested possessions, and 13 tackles in a match-winning display.
The opening quarter set the stage for North’s victory. They surged ahead with the first three goals, building a 17-point lead that Brisbane couldn’t overcome. Ellie Hampson offered a glimmer of hope, converting after a downfield free kick, but it was to be Brisbane’s only major score of the night.
Craig Starcevich praises the Kangaroos
Lions’ coach Craig Starcevich, while disappointed with the result, showed admirable sportsmanship in his post-match reflections. “What I saw in the first half today was the best footy I’ve ever seen in the AFLW,” Starcevich acknowledged, praising North Melbourne’s pressure and quick ball movement.
Despite the disappointment, Brisbane’s sustained excellence continues to define their program. Starcevich also emphasized the increasing competitiveness of the AFLW: “It’s going to be harder and harder to win, so we just have to keep getting better.”
Read: Stunned Driver Pulls Over for Majestic Encounter with a Black-necked Stork in Ipswich
Though the night belonged to North Melbourne, Brisbane’s remarkable consistency in reaching the grand final deserves recognition. As the AFLW continues to evolve, the Lion’s unwavering excellence will keep them firmly in the premiership conversation.
Published 01-December-2024
Match preview published on 26-November-2024.
Lions vs Kangaroos: An AFLW Grand Final Rematch for the Ages
The Brisbane Lions are primed for another defining moment in their AFLW journey as they prepare to face the North Melbourne Kangaroos this Saturday, 30 November in the 2024 AFLW grand final. Lions vs Kangaroos kick off 6:45 p.m. at IKON Park.
Read: Cyber Scam Hits Queenslander, Experts at University of Southern Queensland Warn of Rising Threats
Stars align at IKON Park
The reigning premiers face an undefeated North Melbourne side eager to claim their first premiership, while Brisbane aims for back-to-back flags in familiar territory.
The clash at Melbourne’s IKON Park will once again showcase both teams’ premiership credentials: with the Lions looking to avenge their season-opening defeat and the Kangaroos seeking redemption after their 2023 grand final loss to Brisbane.
Brisbane’s elite status solidified with four players earning All-Australian honours in 2024. Midfield dynamo Ally Anderson, averaging 26.2 disposals and 13.8 contested possessions, secured back-to-back selections. Dynamic winger Sophie Conway, also claiming her second consecutive jacket, averaged 17.4 disposals and 5.1 tackles in a standout season.
First-time selections Belle Dawes (18.8 disposals, 4.3 clearances) and Taylor Smith (22 goals) have proven themselves as stars, with Smith forming a lethal forward partnership alongside Dakota Davidson.
Lions vs Kangaroos
North Melbourne, last season’s runners-up and this season’s undefeated minor premiers (10-1-0), will challenge a battle-hardened Brisbane side. The Lions’ campaign for a third premiership will rely on their All-Australian quartet and the experience gained from five straight preliminary final appearances and three consecutive grand final appearances.
In Round 1 at Brighton Homes Arena, North Melbourne broke their Brisbane hoodoo with a commanding 44-point victory, their first win over the Lions in six attempts. Brisbane, however, showed resilience, going 11-1 since that early season setback to secure another grand final berth.
Kate Lutkins announces retirement
The grand final week announcement of Kate Lutkins’ retirement adds extra motivation for the pride. The three-time All-Australian and 2021 grand final best-on-ground performer leaves an indelible mark on the club, with coach Craig Starcevich praising her transition to mentoring the current squad during this finals campaign.
“It’s been such an awesome career, I’m really thankful to have been part of this program, especially the last two years,” Lutkins said, having been with the Lions since their inaugural season.
Read: Lions vs Crows: Brisbane’s Masterful Second-Half Display Books AFLW Grand Final Spot
The stage is set for an epic encounter between two AFLW powerhouses, with the Lions determined to add another chapter to their proud history. For Brisbane faithful, Saturday’s battle for supremacy can’t come soon enough.
