Brisbane has made five changes for the clash against the Western Bulldogs headlined by the inclusions of Dayne Zorko and Eric Hipwood. Joining the pair are first-year midfielders Hugh McCluggage and Jarrod Berry, alongside defender Daniel McStay.  Sam Mayes has succumbed to a foot injury with four others omitted following last week’s loss to the Eagles.

In defence the Lions are a relatively young unit led by promising key defenders Harris Andrews and McStay who both possess a strong ability to read the ball in the air. Andrews’ intercept marking and leadership is seen as vital to the back six.

Daniel Rich is always a threat with his penetrating left foot and willingness to push forward making him one to watch. Rich is ably supported by Alex Witherden whose debut season has been a standout with his composure and drive off half back impressive.  

The midfield includes skipper Dayne Beams who has been in strong form following injury troubles over the past two seasons. Beams’ impact particularly forward of centre as a goal kicking midfielder is a key weapon for the Lions.  

Midfielder Tom Rockliff continues to be a presence on the inside with his ability to win clearances and influence at stoppages still seen as crucial. Critical to the Lions impact on the inside is the role of ruckman Stefan Martin who acts as an extra onballer around the ground with his athleticism a point of difference.

Dayne Zorko may split his time between both the midfield and forward 50 as has been the case at times throughout 2017. Zorko has been a standout with his combination of speed and quality ball use making him central to many of the Lions scoring chains. 

In the forward line Hipwood is an exciting prospect who possesses’ great athleticism for a key forward and has an ability to take the ball at its highest point which is a challenge for defenders. Alongside Hipwood will be fellow young forward Josh Schache with the pair both capable of having a strong impact with their contested marking.

Below is how the Lions are named to take on the Dogs: