Brisbane Coach Confirms Lachie Neale Faces Foot Injury Ahead of Preliminary Final Against Geelong
Brisbane is optimistic about superstar Lachie Neale's fitness for the upcoming preliminary final against Geelong, following an ankle injury scare during Saturday's victory over GWS Giants. Neale, who has been managing a sore foot, played a crucial role in the comeback win. Coach Chris Fagan reassured fans of Neale's availability, emphasizing his toughness despite ongoing injuries affecting several players. Neale expressed pride in his teammates for their performance.
Brisbane is optimistic that star player Lachie Neale will be ready to compete against Geelong in the preliminary final, despite experiencing a concerning incident during the dramatic victory over the GWS Giants on Saturday night.
Brisbane's Remarkable Comeback Against GWS Giants
The Brisbane Lions achieved a stunning comeback, overturning a significant 44-point deficit to secure a five-point victory in one of the most thrilling AFL finals. The game took a dramatic turn in the final minutes. Following Joe Daniher’s goal that put Brisbane ahead, the action remained concentrated in the Giants' forward half, heightening the tension as the match approached its close.
Lachie Neale's Injury Update
As the match neared its conclusion, a crucial moment unfolded when Neale chased after opponent Toby Bedford for a loose ball. Unfortunately, Neale appeared to roll his ankle, immediately showing discomfort as he clutched his foot. Though he took some time to recover, Neale completed the match and contributed to the hard-fought win. Post-match analysis by 7NEWS AFL reporter Mitch Cleary indicated that Neale entered the game with a pre-existing injury, suggesting that his condition requires monitoring as the team prepares for the next round.
Coach Chris Fagan Discusses Neale's Condition
In the locker room after the match, Neale was seen smiling and celebrating the significant victory. Coach Chris Fagan confirmed that the two-time Brownlow medallist has been dealing with a "sore foot" for weeks, noting that many players are currently competing while injured. Fagan explained that Neale's training sessions have been adjusted to manage his condition, stating, "By the time we get to a game he’s good to go," assuring fans of Neale’s readiness for the forthcoming match against Geelong.
Neale Reflects on the Team's Performance
Following the game, Neale expressed his pride in his teammates and described the comeback as "unbelievable." He emphasized the character displayed by the team during the match, addressing previous doubts regarding their competitive spirit. Neale also revealed his desire to take a free kick in the final moments, ultimately conceding to Joe Daniher, who executed the crucial kick that brought the Lions closer to victory.
Looking Ahead to the Preliminary Final
As Brisbane prepares for the challenge against Geelong, Neale's contribution and resilience will remain vital. His performance in the semifinal showcased not only his talent but also his leadership abilities, aiding the Lions in their quest for victory in the preliminary final.
