Preliminary final: Brisbane Lions v Geelong, Gabba, Saturday October 17, 7.40pm (AEDT)

It’s the preliminary final new-boys against the side that’s been there more than most since 2007. And while that lack of experience for the Lions might seem ominous, the circumstances of this match render that factor a moot point.

Brisbane vanquished any questions about their finals immaturity when they beat Richmond in the qualifying final. On top of that, the Lions have had the advantage of spending an unprecedented amount of time with the comforts of home this season, as opposed to the nomadic Victorian Cats side.

There really couldn’t be a greater opportunity for Brisbane to win their first flag since 2003, given the grand final is on their home deck too, but in their way stands a determined Cats side.