Will Lions find form in SA?

A Gather Round road trip to face the lowly Kangaroos could be just what the doctor ordered to ignite the Brisbane Lions’ spluttering start to season 2024.

If not, Chris Fagan’s side might be beyond saving.

A backline plagued by injuries coupled with superstar forwards suffering from a crisis of confidence have underpinned the Lions’ worst start to a season since 2018.

It’s unfamiliar territory for Fagan’s men, who have won more home and away matches than any other team in the AFL since 2019.

After succumbing to losses against still-unbeaten Carlton and Fremantle in their opening two matches, the Lions played reigning premiers Collingwood back into form on Easter Thursday in a head-scratching encounter remembered for dropped marks and missed shots.

Brisbane’s star goal kicking triumvirate of Joe Daniher, Eric Hipwood and Charlie Cameron averaged six goals per game between them last season, but that number has dropped below four in 2024.

The Lions are now among the worst in the AFL at converting inside 50s into scores – something that had been a feature of their game over the past four seasons and particularly in last year’s run to the grand final.

And up the other end of the ground it doesn’t look much better. Fortunately for Brisbane, there is no side as vulnerable behind the ball as North Melbourne.

The Kangaroos have conceded an average of 120 points this season, including 137 against Carlton last week.

If there was ever a time for the Lions’ star forwards to play their way into goalkicking form it would be Friday afternoon at Adelaide Oval.

“You’re trying to give guys confidence and positivity – (show them) what it looks like when they’re at their best,” skipper Harris Andrews said.