Overview
- Coach Chris Fagan, who spoke Thursday, said defence is the priority after a two-point loss to Melbourne in which Brisbane still kicked more than 100 points.
- Lockdown defender Noah Answerth is sidelined under concussion protocols after his second head knock this season, with Fagan noting he has shown encouraging early signs in recovery.
- The Lions will also be without winger Jarrod Berry for at least three games due to a calf strain, while Dayne Zorko, Darcy Gardiner and Jack Payne remain out with soft-tissue and shoulder or knee injuries.
- Fagan called the issue systemic, saying the whole defensive setup needs work after Brisbane allowed triple figures three times in six games, a sharp contrast to recent flag years.
- Adelaide’s lively small forwards Izak Rankine, Josh Rachele and Ben Keays present a clear test for a reshaped back line at the Gabba on Sunday.