As the AFLW Grand Final looms at Ikon Park this late November 2025, the Brisbane Lions are once again cast in the role of underdogs against an almost invincible North Melbourne side riding a historic 26-game winning streak. This clash represents more than just another match; it’s a battle of resilience, strategy, and raw determination. The Lions, despite falling short in the previous two grand finals against North Melbourne, refuse to back down. Their tactical evolutions, experienced core, and fiery team spirit shine as reasons why they believe they can reverse the tide. With a third consecutive grand final appearance, Brisbane’s story is one of grit and persistence, facing the challenge head-on in a competition that has become more competitive and spectacular by the year.
For fans and curious newcomers alike, this preview offers an in-depth exploration of why the Brisbane Lions’ AFLW team, with their dynamic game style and tactical adjustments, continue to dream big. The underdog tag has been a familiar identity for the Lions over their decade-long tenure in the league, and now, more than ever, it fuels their motivation to dethrone the Kangaroos and lift their second premiership trophy in three years. This analysis navigates their season performance, team strategy, key players’ impact, and the psychological battle ahead, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying Grand Final showdown steeped in passion and footy brilliance.
In brief:
- The Brisbane Lions enter the Grand Final as underdogs against North Melbourne, who are on a record 26-game winning streak.
- Brisbane leverages a high-metres-gained game plan, with dynamic wingers and a strong midfield pack.
- Key players like Ally Anderson, Sophie Conway, and Taylor Smith are instrumental in their forward thrusts.
- The Lions have adapted since their 2024 Grand Final loss, seeking to close the gap on North Melbourne’s dominance.
- Both teams have named unchanged line-ups from their preliminary finals, setting a tactical chess match on the biggest stage.
Brisbane Lions’ 2025 AFLW Season Performance and Grand Final Journey
Throughout the 2025 AFLW season, the Brisbane Lions showcased formidable consistency and determination, finishing the ladder in third place with an impressive record of nine wins and only two losses, accumulating a whopping efficiency rating of 182.4%. Their path to the late November Grand Final was carved through disciplined team structures and a relentless high-speed game that maximizes metres gained, a stat they lead the competition in with an average of 3748.3 metres per game. This relentless forward momentum has been the hallmark of Brisbane’s campaign, combining a fast break style with clinical precision.
The senior coach, Craig Starcevich, renowned for his nine successful seasons at the helm, has crafted a well-honed game plan centered around speed, endurance, and smart ball use. The team’s structure enables seamless transitions from defence to attack, powered by intercept specialists Shannon Campbell and Breanna Koenen. Their ability to reliably win the ball back and spring the likes of Jade Ellenger into attacking positions has been vital to Brisbane’s success. Ellenger’s shift to half-back proved to be a masterstroke, allowing her to act as a launchpad for Brisbane’s swift counterattacks.
The Lions’ midfield has been another critical pillar to their success. With the likes of Ally Anderson, the 2024 Best & Fairest winner, flanked by the tenacious Belle Dawes and Cathy Svarc, they have dominated at centre bounces, averaging 7.2 clearances per game, the highest in the AFLW. This midfield dominance means Brisbane consistently starts play with the ball in hand, applying pressure and opening scoring opportunities. Their adaptability, combined with a strong game sense, has been on full display this season, especially when paired with high half-forwards such as Courtney Hodder and Charlotte Mullins who utilize their pace smartly to stretch opposition defences.
Key Statistics from the Brisbane Lions 2025 Campaign:
| Statistic | Value | Commentary |
|---|---|---|
| Final Ladder Position | 3rd | Consistent top-three finish |
| Wins / Losses | 9 – 2 | Strong winning ratio |
| Metres Gained per Game | 3748.3 | League leading, aggressive playing style |
| Centre Bounce Clearances | 7.2 per game | Midfield superiority |
| Running Bounces per Game | 5.0 | Fast-paced game initiation |
| League Leading Goal Kicker | Taylor Smith (22 goals) | Major threat in attack |
The Lions’ season wasn’t without setbacks. Losses to the formidable Kangaroos by significant margins highlighted areas for refinement, especially in breaking down well-drilled defences. Yet, their season’s growth includes a broadened attacking arsenal, reducing reliance on star forward Dakota Davidson by integrating Taylor Smith’s league-leading goal kicking into their offensive strategies. This diversification complicates defensive plans for their opponents and bolsters their premiership hopes.
Roster stability and player development fueling the 2025 campaign
The off-season saw only minor changes, with the retirement of premiership veteran Kate Lutkins marking a respectful farewell to a club legend. The inclusion of young talents like Claudia Wright and Lilly Baker via the 2024 draft suggests a blend of youth and experience underpinning the Lions’ squad depth. With an average age of 23.9 years and the second-most experienced squad in the league with an average of 41.8 games played, Brisbane maintains a balanced core of seasoned performers and energetic youth.
This mix ensures continuity but also room for evolution in key areas to surpass previous Grand Final hurdles. Players like Sophie Conway and Ally Anderson continue to inspire with their on-field leadership and electric game impact, while newcomers like Poppy Boltz bring fresh physicality and contest prowess to the midfield. The collective maturity combined with dynamic youth keeps the Brisbane Lions aiming high for the premiership.
Analyzing the Underdog Mindset: Why the Brisbane Lions Believe in the Impossible
The Brisbane Lions’ coach Craig Starcevich encapsulates the team’s ethos: “We’ve been underdogs for 10 years, so it’s not new ground for us.” This mentality has bred a resilience and hunger seldom seen in a team consistently challenging for ultimate glory but often overshadowed in the final minutes. Being counted out has forged a combative spirit; the Lions thrive on proving doubters wrong. This psychological edge is crucial in a Grand Final environment where mental toughness can be the difference.
The underdog narrative is more than a motivating cliché. It manifests in the Lions’ approach—relentless work-rate, attacking with velocity, and delivering high-pressure defensive efforts. Brisbane’s style epitomizes a “run and gun” playbook, where wingers like Orla O’Dwyer and Sophie Conway clock averaged metres gained beyond 350 per game, doubling as attacking aids and defensive outlets. Their pace and stamina create opportunities, often dictating terms against even the most dominant teams.
Key to this is the team’s capability to adapt and evolve. After the tough chapter of the 2024 Grand Final defeat by North Melbourne, the Lions adjusted their game plan to become less predictable and more potent offensively. Their capacity to switch dynamics mid-match, blending long kicks into space with swift handball chains, unsettles opponents who anticipate a one-dimensional strategy.
- Persistence: Continuously making grand finals reflects their never-quit attitude.
- Adaptability: Tactical tweaks after losses show an ability to learn and grow.
- Unity: Experienced players leading and mentoring younger teammates create a concentrated team culture.
- Relentless pace: Using metres gained to stretch and shatter opponent setups.
- Mental Toughness: Their underdog history sharpens their emotional grit for big occasions.
Such a mindset was poignantly described when coach Starcevich invoked legendary Leigh Matthews’ mantra, “If it bleeds, we can kill it,” symbolizing the belief that no opponent is invincible. The Lions have cherry-picked this combative spirit, aiming to top a North Melbourne side that has thrived on nearly unmatched dominance.
Considering North Melbourne’s remarkable 26-game winning streak and their status as favourites, the Lions’ psychological preparation is as crucial as their physical readiness. Their recent nine-game winning streak leading into the Grand Final indicates a team peaking at the right moment, ready to challenge the status quo. This, coupled with a well-balanced list that combines seasoned stars and emerging talents, suggests a fiercely competitive contest.
Team Strategy Clash: Brisbane Lions’ Tactical Blueprint vs North Melbourne’s Dominance
When reviewing Brisbane’s tactical approach against North Melbourne, it’s clear that this Grand Final will pivot on a chess-like battle of team strategies. Brisbane’s trademark is their phenomenal metres gained and relentless direct play, resulting in fast transitions and scoring opportunities. This contrasts with North Melbourne’s methodical yet devastatingly efficient style, blending experienced core players like Ash Riddell and Jasmine Garner with an unbreakable team defence bolstered by stars like Tahlia Randall.
The Brisbane Lions’ primary intent will be to stretch North’s backline by exploiting space and using the pace of high half forwards Courtney Hodder and Ruby Svarc. Their running patterns are designed to pull players out of position, creating lanes for accurate long kicks and quick forward entries. Sophie Conway’s role as a wing conduit adds another dimension, marrying midfield supply with attacking pressure.
Meanwhile, Brisbane’s midfielders Ally Anderson, Belle Dawes, and Cathy Svarc have the challenge of breaking through a formidable North Melbourne midfield triad including AFLW best-and-fairest Ash Riddell. Brisbane’s ability to win clearances and maintain forward pressure could determine the game’s momentum. Notably, the Lions lead the AFLW in centre bounce clearances, crucial in limiting North’s attacking chances.
| Aspect | Brisbane Lions | North Melbourne |
|---|---|---|
| Metres Gained | League-leading, fast breaks and quick ball movement | Balanced, methodical, with precise ball control |
| Key Players | Ally Anderson, Sophie Conway, Taylor Smith | Ash Riddell, Jasmine Garner, Tahlia Randall |
| Defensive Strategy | Intercept marking and run-and-spread defence | Structured zone defense and contested tackling |
| Forward Structure | High half forwards with pace and agility | Strong contested marking forwards |
| Midfield Dynamics | Centre bounce clearance dominance | Compact midfield pressure with elite ball winners |
This tactical overview highlights why the game will be fiercely contested. Brisbane’s focus will be on using speed and distance to unnerve North, while North remains favorites with disciplined structure and sustained pressure. Yet Brisbane’s improvements and fresh legs may just tip the scales.
Key Players and Their Impact on the Grand Final Outcome
The Grand Final battle will be shaped by individual brilliance meshed with team effort. Brisbane’s frontline is spearheaded by Taylor Smith, whose 22 goals in 2025 and All-Australian selection make her a lethal scoring threat. Her partnership with Dakota Davidson, despite less reliance than in previous seasons, provides Brisbane with dual outlets to stretch defenders.
On the wings, Sophie Conway’s dynamic running and goal sense add both attacking punch and a defensive workhorse ability—a rare duality that underpins Brisbane’s high-metres game. Ally Anderson remains the heartbeat of the Lions’ midfield; her contested work and clearance skills often dictate the flow of games. Newer midfield additions like Poppy Boltz offer added muscle and burst from stoppages, critical in countering North’s elite midfield tactics.
However, North Melbourne’s key players present daunting challenges. Ash Riddell, the AFLW best-and-fairest, coupled with MGA Jasmine Garner, find space and execution flawless as ever. Veterans like Tahlia Randall bolster defence, making penetrating their zones a complex task. The Kangaroos’ balance of youth and experience has produced a nearly perfect season, including essential wins in tight contests that have sharpened their championship mettle.
- Taylor Smith: Leading goalkicker with precision kicking and forward movement.
- Ally Anderson: Midfield engine providing clearances and drive.
- Sophie Conway: Speedy winger with attacking returns and defensive contributions.
- Dakota Davidson: Explosiveness in attack, creating space and opportunities.
- Ash Riddell and Jasmine Garner: North Melbourne’s midfield and forward powerhouses.
The match may hinge on which players step up in crucial moments, managing pressure and exploiting the slightest weaknesses. Brisbane’s group chemistry and last-minute tactical adjustments could be decisive in toppling the reigning champions.
What to Expect and Match Prediction Insights for the 2025 AFLW Grand Final
As anticipation builds, this late November 2025 AFLW Grand Final promises a captivating spectacle between the Brisbane Lions and North Melbourne, two powerhouses with contrasting routes to glory. The Lions, embracing their underdog status, have developed a narrative of defiance and tactical evolution to challenge the unbeaten Kangaroos.
Matchday strategy will likely focus on Brisbane sustaining their breakneck pace, maintaining possession through quick hands and long kicks, and relying on contested midfield strength to suppress North’s dominant clearances. Meanwhile, North Melbourne will count on their experience, structural discipline, and players who have dominated key individual awards throughout the season, including AFLW best-and-fairest Ash Riddell.
The stable line-ups for both sides, with North having to exclude injured key player Mia King to maintain cohesion, reinforce expectations of a high-quality contest. Fans and analysts alike anticipate a tactical tussle defined by midfield battles, forward impacts, and defensive resilience.
| Key Factor | Potential Impact | Likely Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Brisbane’s Metres Gained Game | High potential to unbalance North’s defense | Could create scoring opportunities and momentum shifts |
| North Melbourne’s Experience | Composure under pressure and tactical discipline | Likely to manage scoreboard pressure effectively |
| Midfield Clash | Determines which team controls the ball supply | Crucial to the game flow and outcomes |
| Key Player Performance | Influences critical moments and game-changing plays | Can swing momentum toward a team |
| Mental Resilience | Impacts response to pressure situations | May decide the premiership winner in tight games |
While North Melbourne is the strong favourite, the Brisbane Lions’ dynamism and tenacity have all the ingredients needed to produce a stunning upset. The match isn’t just a test of physical ability but a clash of belief systems, where the underdogs seek to defy odds and write a new chapter in women’s Australian football history.
For further reading on the AFLW 2025 finals and detailed analysis of the teams’ form leading into the Grand Final, see AFLW Grand Final Preview: North vs Brisbane and Brisbane Lions AFLW Preview. Also, explore the evolving premiership race narratives across the league at AFL Premiership Race 2026 Overview.
What makes Brisbane Lions’ style unique compared to North Melbourne?
Brisbane’s style focuses on aggressive metres gained through fast ball movement and high running bounces, while North Melbourne operates with a more structured and precise approach relying on their compact defense and elite contested ball use.
Who are the key players to watch in the 2025 AFLW Grand Final?
Taylor Smith and Ally Anderson for Brisbane provide attacking and midfield power, while Ash Riddell and Jasmine Garner lead North Melbourne’s experienced lineup.
How important is the midfield battle in deciding the Grand Final outcome?
Extremely important; winning centre bounce clearances and controlling midfield possession shape the scoring opportunities and overall momentum, which often decides close matches in AFLW finals.
Has Brisbane ever won back-to-back AFLW premierships?
No; while Brisbane secured the 2023 premiership, the Kangaroos were the first and only team aiming for back-to-back flags in the women’s competition in 2025.
What factors contribute to Brisbane Lions’ underdog status?
North Melbourne’s dominant winning streak, experience in finals, and their consistent head-to-head victories over Brisbane contribute to the Lions being labelled as underdogs.
