In one of the best games of the 2025 VFL season, Casey edged out the Lions by 4 points in a thriller at Brighton Homes Arena.
The Dees came out firing, dominating the opening term with clean, fast and high-pressure football. Their intensity was rewarded with a comfortable quarter-time lead, setting the tone early.
But after the first break, the Lions hit back hard. They played with renewed intent, wrestled back momentum, and went into half time with their noses in front.
The second half turned into a genuine arm wrestle, with consecutive goals to either side proving rare. Scores were locked at the final change, leaving the contest wide open.
As the clock ticked past 32 minutes in the last quarter, Casey trailed by a single point. It was going to take something special.
Bonner launched the ball deep inside 50, where it was brought to ground. Jefferson gathered cleanly, quickly fed Johnson, who spotted Mitch Hardie in space. Hardie rolled it through, and Casey were back in front.
With less than a minute remaining, Brisbane surged forward and earned a free kick just 15 metres out as the siren sounded. Every Casey fan held their breath — a goal would snatch the win away.
But the Lions were unable to convert, and Casey secured one of their most memorable victories of the season, sealing the four points in dramatic fashion away from home. In the context of the season, it’s a massive result for the Dees — a statement victory that will shape their push for finals.
Luker Kentfield proved the most dangerous forward for the Dees, booting four goals in a standout display. Taking strong marks and converting with composure, he thrived under the high-pressure stakes of the contest.
In the middle, Bailey Laurie was a constant presence, collecting 22 disposals and laying four tackles. He produced the goal of the day, weaving past the defence before launching a superb shot from just inside the 50-metre arc.
The returning duo of Charlie Spargo and Taj Woewodin made their presence felt across the ground. Their relentless tackling and clearance work added a spark that lifted the team’s intensity.
Jack Billings continued his consistent form with 21 disposals, 14 marks, and a goal. His strength at the contest and ability to link up play proved vital.
In defence, Tom Fullarton was a rock, amassing 10 intercept possessions. His strength in the air and calm decision-making under pressure were key to repelling repeated Lions attacks.
Casey-listed defender Tom Freeman was equally impressive down back, also recording 10 intercept possessions. With several timely spoils and tight defensive pressure, he ensured his direct opponents had little influence.
Making it four wins in a row, Casey are hitting their best form at the perfect time of the season. Confidence is high, belief is growing, and the team is showing they can match it with anyone in the competition.
Attention now turns to their final home-and-away clash against the ladder-leading Box Hill Hawks — a huge test and an opportunity to make a powerful statement heading into finals.
BRISBANE LIONS 2.1 8.6 9.9 11.13 (79)
CASEY DEMONS 5.3 7.6 9.9 12.11 (83)
GOALS
Brisbane Lions: McFadyen (3), Gallop (2), Ryan (1), Meekin (1), McInerney (1), McCarthy (1), Fazldeen (1), Craven (1)
Casey Demons: Kentfield (4), Johnson (2), Verrall (1), Laurie (1), Jefferson (1), Hardie (1), Brown (1), Billings (1)
DISPOSALS
Brisbane Lions: Beecken (25), McInerney (23), Annable (22), Zakostelsky (19)
Casey Demons: Bonner (30), Spargo (24), Woewodin (23), Tholstrup (23)
