THE Brisbane Lions bounced back with a crushing 70-point victory over Fremantle in Round 2 of the AFLW at Fremantle Community Bank Oval.
On Saturday night, the Lions stormed past the Dockers 17.3 (105) to 5.5 (35) in a performance that saw the roars grow louder.
From the first bounce, the Lions played with a hunger that Fremantle simply couldn’t match – swarming contests, slicing through corridors, and punishing turnovers with clinical precision.
At the heart of the attack was Irish midfielder Aisling McCarthy, who served a masterclass with 28 disposals – 20 of them kicks – and seven clearances.
Every time the Lions surged forward, McCarthy was there, directing traffic and hitting targets with laser-like accuracy. Her 109 fantasy points were a testament to her dominance, but the numbers barely capture her influence.
Up front, Taylor Smith and Dakota Davidson provided the focal points Brisbane had been missing in Round 1. The pair combined for four goals and four marks, with Smith adding two goal assists and even pitching in at the ruck with three hitouts.
Then there was Courtney Hodder – the pocket rocket whose three goals came from moments of sheer brilliance, sparking celebrations on and off the ground.
If dominance starts at the source, then Tahlia Hickie set the tone. Her 25 hitouts and 16 disposals gave Brisbane first use at stoppages and starved the Dockers of territory.
The numbers tell the story: Brisbane’s 105 points not only shattered their previous scoring record, but also showcased an attacking brand of footy that few sides can contain.
Efficiency inside 50 was elite, and the defensive transition that limited Fremantle’s scoring chances was just as impressive.
This wasn’t just a win. It was a statement.
Brisbane now returns to Brighton Homes Arena on Sunday to face Carlton with the first bounce for 5.05pm, and if Saturday’s performance is anything to go by, the Lions will hit that clash with their confidence justifiably high.
