Its choice as AFLW grand last host was contentious however Brisbane’s new venue holds no fears for Melbourne as they put together to go north.
The 10,000-capacity Brighton Homes Arena – a part of the Lions’ state-of-the-art Springfield headquarters – can have its first aggressive fixture with subsequent Sunday’s season decider.
Demons coach Mick Stinear dismissed considerations over the freshly laid enjoying floor, which was solely ticked off by league officers on Friday.
“They earned the right to get a home final and if that facility is ready and available – and it looks like it is – we’re keen to go,” Stinear mentioned after his aspect superior with a 17-point win over North Melbourne on Saturday.
“We’re just grateful to be in a grand final and pleased our group earned that opportunity.
“Brisbane deserved that (house floor benefit) by being minor premiers.”
The Lions have been training on a nearby oval and expect to have their first run on the new arena in the days leading up to the grand final.
They won’t have to travel, having finished above Melbourne on top of the ladder by the barest of margins.
“They’ll get the advantage of the gang and it is an excellent event for them to unveil the brand new facility,” Stinear mentioned.
“It seems to be improbable and it is a good alternative for girls’s footy in Queensland.
“It might be neutral in terms of no one’s played a match there but I don’t think the players will be too fussed once that ball goes up.”
Brisbane are 1-2 in grand finals, having hoisted the premiership cup in 2021, whereas Melbourne misplaced to Adelaide final season of their solely earlier look on the largest stage.
“A lot of hard work goes into getting into a grand final and you’ve got to make sure you make the most of your opportunities,” Stinear mentioned.
“I’m rapt with our group for enduring all that hard work to get there again and we just want to bring the best version of ourselves.”
Melbourne will monitor Tayla Harris’ shoulder harm in coming days however are assured the star ahead will probably be match for the grand last.
