Brisbane v Geelong, Gabba Saturday, March 29, 6.35pm AEST

Last time: Brisbane 14.11 (95) d Geelong 12.13 (85), PF 2024

What it means

Brisbane hosts Geelong three weeks after the preliminary final rematch was originally scheduled but arguably better for the couple of hitouts it has had in the meantime. The Lions started slowly and had to chase down the Swans and Eagles in their opening two matches, but in ominous signs they have begun their premiership defence with a pair of victories without going close to playing four quarters.

Geelong looked all set to be among the frontrunners when starting its season with a thumping win over Fremantle but quickly came back to earth in a defeat to St Kilda away from home. The Cats will be back on the road up and against a familiar foe but should hold few fears of a trip to the Gabba where they have beaten the Lions 10 times in their past 15 clashes.

Game shapers

Lachie Neale was always likely to bounce back after being limited to only 10 disposals as Brisbane started its season with a nail-biting win in the Grand Final rematch against Sydney. The dual Brownlow medallist returned to form with 35 touches and eight clearances as his side chased down a gallant West Coast and can be expected to lift again as the reigning premier takes on old foe Geelong.

Max Holmes has made a steady start to the season as Geelong's chief line-breaker charging out of defence and through the midfield. But the Cats speedster will come into this clash with unfinished business after being forced out of the game at a critical time when his side met the Lions in last year's preliminary final – just as he was against the same team at the same stage in the 2022 season.