The AFL grand final delivered a masterclass in composure as the Brisbane Lions claimed their sixth premiership with an imperious performance against Fremantle. In a match that had fans and pundits alike in disbelief, the Lions proved why they are champions, overcoming a determined Dockers side to etch their names into history.
Brisbane's Imperious Grand Final Victory
From the opening bounce, the Lions displayed remarkable poise. Despite Fremantle's early pressure, Brisbane never panicked, sticking to their game plan with unwavering belief. The final quarter will be remembered for a flurry of moments – moments of madness, brilliance, Swiss precision, and utter confusion. It was a similar feeling to that which enveloped the ground following the drawn grand final in 2010. How the hell had they done it? What the hell just happened?
Key Moments That Turned the Tide
The game was punctuated by individual acts of brilliance. Logan Morris was nerveless under pressure, Will Ashcroft was imperious in the midfield, Lachie Neale bounced off three tacklers, Zac Bailey kicked a 'no look' goal, Ryan Lester chased down Josh Treacy, and Josh Dunkley smothered Shai Bolton. These moments, among others, defined the contest and showcased the Lions' big-game temperament.
| Team | Goals | Behinds | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brisbane Lions | 15 | 10 | 100 |
| Fremantle Dockers | 12 | 8 | 80 |
Why Fremantle Let It Slip
It's tempting to focus on Fremantle and ask how they let this premiership slip. It's a question that will haunt everyone associated with the club until they finally jag one. However, the story of this grand final was the magnificence of the Lions – the way they didn't panic, didn't deviate, didn't break. Don't get sucked into any narrative that Fremantle pissed this premiership away. Brisbane won it on their merits.
Brisbane's Season of Resilience
The Lions' journey to the flag was not without challenges. They faced injuries, form slumps, and criticism, but peaked at the right time. Their preliminary final demolition of Geelong sent a warning, and in the grand final, they delivered when it mattered most.

- Unwavering belief: Brisbane never panicked, even when Fremantle challenged.
- Individual brilliance: Key players stepped up in crucial moments.
- Defensive pressure: The Lions' tackling and smothering were relentless.
- Coaching masterstroke: Chris Fagan's moves paid off.
Reactions and Aftermath
In the immediate aftermath, the mood at the MCG was one of shellshock, even among the winning supporters. It was a similar feeling to that which enveloped the ground following the drawn grand final in 2010. How the hell had they done it? What the hell just happened? The Lions' players and fans will cherish this one forever, as it will be remembered as the most extraordinary of Brisbane's six premierships.
FAQ
How many premierships have the Brisbane Lions won?
The Brisbane Lions have won six premierships in their history, with the 2023 victory being their most recent and arguably most extraordinary.
Who was the standout player in the AFL grand final?
Will Ashcroft was imperious, but Logan Morris, Lachie Neale, Zac Bailey, Ryan Lester, and Josh Dunkley all had crucial moments.
Did Fremantle lose the grand final or did Brisbane win it?
Brisbane won it on their merits. While Fremantle had chances, the Lions' composure and brilliance under pressure were the deciding factors.