BRISBANE has locked in third place on the AFLW ladder after a hard-fought 20-point win over Collingwood at Victoria Park on Sunday afternoon.
Despite dominating general play, the Lions’ inaccuracy kept the contest alive before they steadied late to claim a 6.16 (52) to 5.2 (32) victory.
Brisbane’s midfield again proved the difference, with Ally Anderson (26 disposals, six clearances) and Belle Dawes (23) driving the visitors forward.
But it was once inside 50 that the Lions faltered, wasting numerous scoring opportunities and kicking 16 behinds for the match.
Dakota Davidson, in her 75th game, worked tirelessly in attack for a return of one goal and four behinds, while Taylor Smith made the most of her chances to finish with two majors.
Sarah Rowe and Airlie Runnalls battled hard on the wings, while small forwards Grace Campbell and Alana Porter provided spark inside 50. Georgia Knight’s first AFLW goal was a highlight for the Magpies late in the game.
The Lions’ clearance dominance (24-15) eventually told, allowing them to control territory and keep Collingwood under pressure for most of the afternoon.
Brisbane will now meet Melbourne in next week’s qualifying final.
GOALS:
Collingwood – Frederick, Runnalls, Campbell, Porter, Knight
Brisbane – Smith 2, Hartill, R. Svarc, O’Dwyer, Davidson
