Some respite for injury-hit Lions

THE Lions may be suffering some injury woes heading into this weekend’s do-or-die clash with the Bulldogs, but the cavalry is returning, with two key players pushing hard for selection.

Experienced defender Ryan Lester has overcome a hamstring concern which ruled him out of the qualifying final against Melbourne, while the versatile Callum Ah Chee returns from a groin issue.

Brisbane high performance manager said Lester and Ah Chee were free to play after undergoing fitness tests earlier this week.

“They have been through some solid sessions and pulled up fine so we will make them available,” he said. “Cal just pulled up with a bit of a sore groin. When he kicked it gave him a bit of a pinch so we played it safe but he got through fine this week.”

Their availability comes as key forward Daniel McStay (concussion) was ruled out.

Meanwhile, more than 20,000 tickets were snapped up in less than 24 hours for Saturday’s semi-final at the Gabba as the game looks set to become a sellout.