The Brisbane Lions secured their second consecutive AFL premiership with a commanding 47-point victory over Geelong in front of more than 100,000 fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. This triumph on the last Saturday of September has led some to speculate whether a new era of Lions dominance is upon us.

AFL legend Mick Malthouse had predicted this success, urging fans to get accustomed to seeing Brisbane in the grand final. After their latest win, the Lions have now claimed five premierships in the 21st century, joining their historic three-peat from 2001 to 2003 under coach Leigh Matthews and captain Michael Voss. The team has emerged as one of the most successful in AFL history, with two premierships in the last three grand finals, despite a narrow loss to Collingwood in 2023.

Malthouse noted the potential of the young players, stating, "The young kids will only get bigger and stronger; win, lose or draw, they'll be around the Brisbane Lions." His comments reflect the team's promising future, especially given their youthful roster.

The grand final was a tightly contested match, with both teams exchanging leads throughout the first half. The game reached a dramatic half-time tie, marking the first of the season. However, Brisbane took control in the second half, with standout performances from players like Hugh McCluggage and Charlie Cameron, each scoring four goals. The Lions surged ahead in the third quarter, scoring three goals in a frantic five-minute stretch, establishing their first significant lead of the match.

Geelong struggled to regain momentum, and Brisbane dominated the final quarter, outscoring the Cats nine goals to five. The Lions' celebrations began well before the final siren, signaling their confidence and dominance.

The young players played a crucial role in the victory. Norm Smith medallist Will Ashcroft, who was named best on ground for the second consecutive year, is only 21 years old. His younger brother, Levi, at just 18, made significant contributions, including a remarkable goal in the second quarter. Other young talents, such as Logan Morris and Ty Gallop, also stepped up, showcasing the depth of the Lions' roster.

Under coach Chris Fagan, who took over in 2016, the Lions have transformed from a struggling team that missed the finals for seven years to a grand final contender. While other top teams face questions about aging rosters, Brisbane's blend of youthful energy and experienced players positions them well for continued success in the AFL.