Lions determined to maintain rage
LOSING AFLW grand finalists Brisbane Lions will turn their disappointment into determination, as the club aim to lock up their star- packed roster for 2019.
The Lions lost their second consecutive premiership decider on Saturday, when they were bravely beaten by the Western Bulldogs.
But while the club may not have any titles to their name, they have commanded a new level of respect in making backto- back grand finals and have also unveiled a number of promising players.
With the transfer season now fast approaching following the end of the AFLW season, Lions coach Craig Starcevich said the club will do everything they can to maintain their roster. Star forward Sabrina Frederick- Traub said in the lead up to the grand final that the young playing group have the potential to create a legacy at Brisbane and pledged to stay with the club.
Gun defender Kate Lutkins followed suit after the loss, saying she is “never leaving” while Victorian talent Kaitlyn Ashmore also indicated she wants the roster to stay.
Starcevich said the club will do everything they can, even in the face of expansion.
“Hopefully we can keep them together and keep learning how each other plays and eventually get a chance to come out victor on one of these ( grand final) days,” he said.
Ashmore echoed her coach’s sentiments, despite the fact there will be heavy interest in her from Victorian teams. With North Melbourne and Geelong set to enter the competition this year, there is increasing speculation Ashmore could join the Kangaroos. But after the grand final, it seemed only Brisbane was on her mind.
“I would love to see the Lions stick together,” she said.