Lions star Josh Dunkley says Brisbane is building nicely ahead of showdown with Carlton
The Lions are keen to finish their pre-season campaign in style against the Swans on Thursday.
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Brisbane star Josh Dunkley wants the Lions to maintain momentum ahead of their “Opening Round” battle with Carlton by finishing off their pre-season campaign with a win over the Sydney Swans.
The Swans will host the Lions on Thursday in an AFL Community Series clash at Blacktown International Sports Park.
Eight days later, the Lions start their season with a clash against the Blues at the Gabba.
“Our pre-season’s been (good),” Dunkley said.
“We worked really hard early days just to build our fitness. We did a lot of short-sided stuff and have played match simulation the last few weeks. and we’ve been building to round zero (against Carlton).
“The Swans are out next challenge and we look forward to that, and our pre-season continuing (with) that rise would be nice heading into that game against the Blues in round zero.”
The Lions played two intra-club trials before upping the ante last Thursday night in a practice match against the Gold Coast Suns at Springfield.
Brisbane won by 47 points in a convincing display.
“We did a few little things out on the ground that we might do throughout the year, and it’s just good to be playing against opposition, and with the Gold Coast building that rivalry,” Dunkley said.
“It’s nice to be able to throw those magnets around in a game like (that) and still be in control of the game.”
Lions co-captain Lachie Neale, who had groin surgery in the off-season, is expected return to action against the Swans, as is Jarrod Berry (shoulder).
Originally published as Lions star Josh Dunkley says Brisbane is building nicely ahead of showdown with Carlton
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