Lions star Neale on way to Brownlow but still work left to do
BRISBANE safely negotiated Carlton and Lachie Neale may have sealed a Brownlow Medal, but the Lions still have a bit to tidy up ahead of their flag tilt.
The Blues did their best to honour retiring champion Kade Simpson with a late charge, but the damage was done in the second quarter as Brisbane won by 17 points at the Gabba last night.
If Collingwood beats Port Adelaide tomorrow night, Brisbane will finish on top of the ladder for the first time in its history – a feat not achieved by even the mighty Leigh Matthews three-peat sides of the early 2000s.
Neale was again a central figure of the Lions’ win with 29 possessions and nine inside 50s – his workrate a feature of his performance that is sure to catch the umpires’ eyes.
He will be fighting for votes with Daniel Rich, whose performance was just as influential with two trademark long-bomb goals for good effect.
Brisbane had 61 inside 50s to 37 but failed to make full benefit of its chances.
Kade Simpson is often described as a warrior for his deeds over 342 games, so it was no surprise to see him among the thick of it early.
Simpson copped a solid blow to the face after an accidental head clash with Daniel McStay early in the contest.
He spent the ensuring minutes checking and rechecking his mouth but continued on unaffected.
His goal in the third quarter, where he found space and calmly slotted a major from distance, was a fitting moment and he was mobbed by teammates.
It was also his first goal since Round 19 last season.