Brisbane Lions claim premiership by defeating Sydney Swans in grand final

In the 2024 AFL Grand Final held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the Brisbane Lions achieved a resounding victory over the Sydney Swans, winning by 60 points. This match marked Brisbane's first premiership in over two decades, following a disappointing loss in the previous year's final. The Lions dominated the game, particularly in the second quarter, where they scored seven goals, establishing a significant lead by halftime. Sydney struggled to maintain possession and control, leading to their fourth consecutive grand final loss since their last premiership in 2012. Brisbane's performance was characterized by superior ball movement and individual brilliance, with players like Lachie Neale and Will Ashcroft standing out. Neale, a Brownlow Medal winner, played a crucial role in the Lions' midfield, while Ashcroft earned the Norm Smith Medal as the best player on the ground, becoming the youngest recipient of this honor. The Lions' defense effectively neutralized Sydney's attacks, contributing to the Swans' inability to score. Post-match, Sydney's coach John Longmire expressed disappointment in his team's performance, acknowledging that they did not execute their game plan effectively. Despite the loss, he remained optimistic about the team's resilience and potential for future success. The defeat adds to the Swans' recent history of grand final disappointments, raising questions about their ability to bounce back in the coming seasons. Overall, the match was a significant milestone for the Brisbane Lions, who celebrated their fourth premiership since the merger of the Brisbane Bears and Fitzroy Lions, while the Swans faced another chapter of heartbreak in their quest for a championship.