The Brisbane Lions are on a roll, and it’s not just the wins that are captivating—it’s the how and why behind their surge that’s truly fascinating. Personally, I think what makes this particularly fascinating is the way they’ve turned their season around. From a middling 6-6 record, they’ve now strung together six consecutive victories, a feat even their coach, Chris Fagan, admits he didn’t see coming. This isn’t just a story of winning; it’s a story of resilience, strategy, and the relentless pressure of chasing a three-peat—a feat only two teams have achieved this century.
What many people don’t realize is that this kind of turnaround isn’t just about talent; it’s about culture. The Lions’ ability to stay in the hunt for a top-four spot, despite the fierce competition, speaks volumes about their mental toughness. Fagan’s honesty about their earlier struggles—‘I might not have believed you’—is refreshing in a sport where coaches often stick to clichés. It’s a reminder that even the best teams face doubt, and it’s how they respond that defines them.
One thing that immediately stands out is the internal competition within the team. James Tunstill’s candid admission about the challenge of holding his spot highlights the depth of this squad. In my opinion, this kind of healthy competition is what separates good teams from great ones. It’s not just about who’s playing; it’s about who’s pushing everyone else to be better. Tunstill’s attitude—‘I enjoy the challenge’—is emblematic of a team that thrives under pressure.
The selection dilemmas Fagan faces are equally intriguing. Oscar Allen’s return to fitness and the potential of a three-tall forward line with Logan Morris and Eric Hipwood is a tactical gamble that could pay dividends. But what this really suggests is that the Lions aren’t resting on their laurels. They’re experimenting, adapting, and pushing boundaries—even when they’re winning. This raises a deeper question: How much should a winning team tinker with its lineup? Fagan’s approach seems to be a balance between rewarding form and planning for the future.
What makes this particularly interesting is the psychological aspect. The Lions are openly using the chase for a three-peat as motivation, something Fagan admits might not work with a younger group. From my perspective, this is a testament to the maturity of the squad. They’re not shying away from the pressure; they’re embracing it. But here’s the thing: pressure can be a double-edged sword. While it can drive excellence, it can also lead to overthinking or complacency. The Lions’ ability to stay focused amidst the hype will be the key to their success.
If you take a step back and think about it, the Lions’ journey this season is a microcosm of the AFL’s broader narrative: the balance between consistency and innovation, the tension between individual ambition and team success, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Their upcoming games against Port Adelaide, Hawthorn, and Collingwood will be crucial tests. Will they maintain their form, or will the weight of expectation catch up with them?
A detail that I find especially interesting is Fagan’s emphasis on ‘destiny being in our own hands.’ It’s a powerful statement, but it’s also a risky one. In a sport where injuries, form slumps, and sheer luck can derail even the best-laid plans, claiming control over destiny is bold. Yet, it’s this kind of mindset that has brought them this far.
In my opinion, the Lions’ story isn’t just about winning premierships; it’s about the journey—the sacrifices, the gambles, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether they achieve the three-peat or not, they’ve already given us a masterclass in resilience and ambition. And that, in itself, is worth celebrating.
