In a remarkable journey of resilience, Jack Payne is set to make his debut in the AFL Grand Final, having missed last year’s pivotal matches due to injury. As a key defender for the Brisbane Lions, Payne acknowledges that the experiences gained by his teammates in previous finals have significantly enhanced their preparation for this year’s showdown against Sydney.
Last season was a tough break for Payne, who was sidelined by an ankle injury during the preliminary final and the Grand Final itself. His concerns about suffering another setback were palpable when he injured his knee in the elimination final against Carlton. However, he persevered, contributing a vital late tackle in the recent victory over Geelong that secured their place in the Grand Final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Before traveling to Melbourne, Payne reflected on the lessons learned from last year’s experience, noting the team’s newfound confidence. “Last year was uncharted territory for most of us, except for a few seasoned players like Charlie Cameron and Josh Dunkley,” he said. “This time, we are much better equipped. We know what to expect and have complete faith in our group, thanks to Coach Chris Fagan’s guidance.”
Zac Bailey, another standout from last year’s Grand Final, emphasized the importance of moving forward after their previous loss to Collingwood. He recalled his early contributions in that match, but stressed the need to put the past behind them. “We recognized that Collingwood outperformed us in critical moments, and that will be a focal point for us this weekend,” Bailey shared, acknowledging the emotional toll of the loss that lingered into the first half of the current season.
Bailey admitted that the pressure to perform well in the finals had initially weighed heavily on the team, affecting their enjoyment of the game. “In the beginning, we struggled to enjoy our footy while trying to meet our own expectations. However, in the latter part of the season, we started playing more freely,” he explained. “Despite a rocky start, we always believed we could compete with any team.”
As the Lions prepare for this pivotal match against the Swans, their combination of experience, determination, and strategic adjustments positions them well for a shot at glory. With a clearer mindset and valuable lessons from the past, the Brisbane Lions are ready to make their mark on the biggest stage in Australian football.