Aker: Lions can rise ‘another level’

Akermanis is assured the Lions can finish their flag drought, believing Brisbane has “another level” it may possibly attain on this season’s finals sequence.

“This is the best list they’ve had for 20 years since we last won it,” the three-time premiership winner stated.

it in 2023.

“Apart from Will Ashcroft’s (knee) injury, they’re at full power, and … they have another level in them.”

This yr’s arrival of former Western Bulldogs star Dunkley has been a key consider Brisbane’s enchancment.

Akermanis stated it was “staggering” that Dunkley didn’t function in All-Australian choice dialog.

“He’s only really just dropped off a bit late in the season,” the 2001 Brownlow medallist stated.

“I’m not sure what the selectors are looking at.”

However, Akermanis instructed Dunkley ought to get extra concerned on Saturday evening when the Lions host Port Adelaide in a qualifying remaining on the Gabba.

“He needs to get his hands on the ball more. They need that midfield rotation, run and carry,” he stated.

“And if you get him or Lachie (Neale), or the other couple in the midfield kicking goals, that’s something that (Port) don’t expect, but if they can do it, it’s just massive.

“I just know how much more is left in that group. Zac Bailey can get 26 touches and three goal, Cam Rayner can do the same … they’ve got talent across the park when they need it to shine.”

Akermanis stated it was very important the Lions nullified the specter of key Port pair Zak Butters and Connor Rozee.

“They’re really the Port guys that create that flow, and handball receives between the back half and the front half,” he stated.

“They’ve had great years, and they’re really important to the way Port move the ball.”

Originally printed as Lions nice Jason Akermanis says Brisbane has the ‘list’ to win the premiership for the primary time in 20 years