Players missing but Lions pack power with those who remain
BRISBANE has long held a pack mentality approach when it comes to building success in the AFL and it will be no different this weekend with a spate of injuries ruling out some of its star players.
The Lions were left battered and bruised during their 18-point win over Carlton last weekend and now face third-placed Port Adelaide at the Gabba on Saturday without Brownlow Medallist Lachie Neale (ankle), Darcy Gardiner (concussion) and Jarrod Berry (groin).
But it hasn’t dampened the spirits among the playing group who are firm believers in the pack mentality.
“We’ve had the mentality for a while that squads win premierships, not individuals,” Brisbane veteran Daniel Rich said.
“It’s a real squad mentality approach that we’re taking to it.
“As much as we’d rather have those guys out there playing with us, they can’t be out there every week.
“Injuries are part of footy and everyone knows it’s part of the game.
“Our injury numbers aren’t too bad, they just might seem a little bit worse because we’ve been pretty good over the last few years.
“At the same time, it really tests your depth.
“We’ve got great depth at our footy club and it’s a great opportunity for those guys so we’re definitely positive about it.”
Brisbane’s reserve squad has been showing plenty of potential in the opening rounds of the VFL competition, including the likes of Rhys Mathieson – who kicked four goals and had 18 touches during last weekend’s loss to Carlton.
Mathieson’s effort is set to reap him the rewards after he was named to replace Neale in the Lions midfield for Saturday’s clash with Port Adelaide.
Rich said the strength of the club’s depth helped the team improve each week.