Brisbane Lions won decisive moments to overcome Fremantle

Brisbane secured the 2026 AFL premiership by winning the decisive passages of a grand final in which Fremantle controlled much of the match, coach Chris Fagan said. Fagan acknowledged that Fremantle was the better side for longer periods. He said the Dockers dominated clearances and contested possession, particularly in the third quarter, while also earning more inside-50 entries and shots at goal.

The final was closely contested early, with nine lead changes across the first half. Fremantle nevertheless disrupted Brisbane’s normally strong clearance game, dominated centre clearances and gained an advantage in the marking contest. Brisbane stayed in contention through pressure in its forward half.

The Lions recorded nine tackles inside 50 in the opening half, compared with two from Fremantle, and converted some of that pressure into scoring opportunities. Fremantle then built what appeared to be a decisive advantage, including a burst of 14 points in about five minutes during the third quarter. Brisbane’s response turned the match, however, and the Lions finished with the moments that mattered most.

Fagan said the result reflected a pattern in which Brisbane sometimes needed to reach a desperate position before producing its best football. The victory made the Lions three-time premiers under Fagan, while Fremantle suffered a defeat after controlling much of the contest.