Brisbane Lions Left Frustrated After Narrow Loss to Adelaide Crows in Round 13
The Brisbane Lions were left ruing missed opportunities after a heartbreaking five-point loss to the Adelaide Crows in AFL Round 13, with head coach Chris Fagan insisting his team “should have won” the match.
Brisbane led for the majority of the contest at the Gabba, only to watch the Crows storm home in the final quarter, kicking five unanswered goals to snatch a dramatic victory from the reigning premiers.
Lions Waste Late Chances in Crucial Moments
Despite dominating key statistics, the Lions failed to capitalize on numerous forward entries during the final term. Critical missed shots from Zac Bailey, who sent two out on the full, and Lachie Neale, who missed an open goal from just 20 meters out, ultimately proved costly.
> “We had 10 shots in the last quarter — they had five. We lose the game despite having five more scoring opportunities,” Fagan said post-game.
“That was a game we should have won. Adelaide persisted, credit to them, but we dominated the final 15 minutes and couldn’t put it on the scoreboard.”
Stat Sheet Supports Brisbane's Dominance
The Lions finished ahead in nearly every major statistical category:
+19 in clearances
+13 in contested possessions
74% forward half time in the final quarter
+74 in total disposals
Fagan expressed pride in the effort but disappointment in the result.
> “We did so many things right. I’m proud of our boys’ character — it’s never easy to play Adelaide, especially when they’re in form. But we kept them to a low score and had more than enough chances to win,” he said.
Crows Coach Acknowledges a Bit of Luck
Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks praised his team’s resilience and admitted that luck played a role in the win.
> “To actually finish it off was pleasing. Yes, there was some luck, but we earned the position to hold on,” Nicks said.
“We’ve had years where nothing went our way. Tonight, we finally got a little break and made the most of it.”
Captain Jordan Dawson Sparks Comeback
Adelaide skipper Jordan Dawson was instrumental in the final quarter, lifting his team with a massive contested mark and goal that sparked the comeback.
> “You talk about big moments — our captain stepped up when it mattered most,” said Nicks.
“He’s a true team player who knows how to impact a game when it counts.”
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Adelaide Crows face a challenging road trip against Hawthorn in Tasmania next Friday night.
Brisbane Lions return home to take on Greater Western Sydney next Saturday afternoon in a must-win game.
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