The aftermath of Brisbane’s defeat to Geelong proved more humbling than the nature of the loss, amid revelations marquee man Lachie Neale would be sidelined for the rest of the campaign.

But four-time premiership-winner and former Lions star Luke Hodge insists the defending champions can return to the promised land without their inspiration co-captain, tipping the club’s contingent of young stars to rise to the occasion.

“History shows losing a guy like Lachie Neale is going to hurt, but what you do need is depth, senior blokes to stand up, and most importantly young guys to come into the side and play their role,” Hodge said, speaking as the AFL premiership cup arrived in Brisbane at the Morningside Panthers.

“What you do need in big games is your leaders to stand up, play well and be

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