Sydney Swans vs Brisbane Lions Tips and Prediction

Sydney looked electric in patches against Carlton last week, but this is a completely different test.

The defending premiers arrive as underdogs again and that’s rarely a position the Lions stay in for long.

Sydney’s huge third quarter against Carlton blew the game open, but outside that burst the contest was far more even than the final score suggested. Brisbane won’t give the Swans the same freedom through the middle or the same easy exits out of defence.

The Lions still lost to the Bulldogs in Opening Round but the numbers out of that game were encouraging. They generated plenty of inside 50s and controlled large stretches of the contest before efficiency in front of goal let them down.

Even with a few outs, Brisbane still have one of the deepest midfields in the competition. Lachie Neale, Josh Dunkley and company can apply the kind of pressure that slows Sydney’s attacking chains.

Sydney deserve to be favourites at home but more than three goals feels a little generous against the reigning premiers. Brisbane have consistently matched up well in this fixture and if they can control the midfield battle the Lions should stay within the number.

Cameron looks in strong form again after kicking four goals last weekend. Brisbane’s forward line relies heavily on his pressure and finishing ability, and he usually finds ways to get involved in big games.

Sydney’s best football is explosive and the SCG can quickly turn into a momentum venue when the Swans get on top.

If Brisbane struggle to contain Sydney’s transition game early, the margin could blow out quickly before the Lions have a chance to settle.

Which is why this probably comes down to how much pressure Brisbane can apply around stoppages.