If the Brisbane Lions are to continue their resurgence then competing in massive games is crucial says CEO Greg Swann.
The Lions tonight host Collingwood in a sold-out blockbuster at The Gabba to kick off Round 5 and apart from the positive financial impact it will have on the club, the game will majorly benefit the players.
Brisbane operates with the second youngest and third least experienced list in the AFL and with just three national broadcasts for the 2019 season, it is flagship fixtures such as this Easter Thursday clash against the Magpies that will help trend towards a renaissance.
“One of the reasons why we want to have this game is it gives these young blokes experience to play in a blockbuster,” Swann told SEN.com.au.
“We’ve got players who have played 100-odd games who have never played on a Friday night. They haven’t played in a big game with a big build-up with the media spotlight.
“So if we’re going to get better, we need to experience those things and an Easter Thursday blockbuster is a good way to start.
“You are the national focus, it’s different than other games, people are ringing for tickets, so it’s a whole different build-up and it’s pretty special.
“You need experience to handle those things and we haven’t had much of it so this game will be a good stepping stone in that direction.”
Chris Fagan’s Lions currently sit fourth on the ladder with a record of 3-1 and although last weekend’s loss to Essendon did provide a reality check, there is more hope and confidence than in previous years according to Swann.
“Last year we started 0-8 and the year before we were 1-9, and to be 3-1, it gives the place a different feel,” he added.
“This is new for us but it’s good and there’s a real positivity around the place.
“I think there’s a belief now, especially when you beat (reigning premiers) West Coast in the first game, you can beat anybody on a good day.
“It’s a big test, another Grand Finalist coming up here, but if we are going to get better we need to win some of these games.”
The Lions have made no change for tonight’s encounter with the Magpies who have welcomed back former Brisbane captain Dayne Beams into their line-up after he missed last week with illness.
