Logan Morris Kicks Eight Goals as Brisbane Lions Rout Collingwood to Secure Third Spot

The Brisbane Lions have sent an ominous warning to the rest of the AFL competition, securing a crucial top-three finish with a commanding 63-point victory over the Collingwood Magpies at the MCG. In a performance that showcased their premiership credentials, the Lions controlled the Friday night blockbuster from the outset, eventually running out 25.9 (159) to 15.6 (96) winners. The victory not only guarantees Brisbane a double-chance in the upcoming finals series but also sets up a mouth-watering qualifying final clash against the Sydney Swans.[2][3][4]

The undisputed star of the evening was 21-year-old Brisbane forward Logan Morris, who delivered a career-defining performance on the eve of September. Morris was virtually unstoppable inside the forward 50, booting a remarkable eight goals from 15 disposals and taking eight marks. In doing so, he etched his name into the history books as the first Brisbane Lions player to ever kick eight goals in a single match at the MCG. His combination of aerial dominance and ground-level agility drew immediate comparisons to modern greats, with commentators marveling at his rapid development in just his third AFL season.[1][3]

Morris was well-supported by a dynamic Brisbane forward line that overwhelmed Collingwood's defensive structures. Irish recruit Conor McKenna produced several moments of individual brilliance, finishing with four goals, including a spectacular soccer-style strike from a tight angle that is already being touted as a Goal of the Year contender. Former West Coast Eagle Oscar Allen also capitalized on the Lions' forward entries, adding four goals of his own, while Eric Hipwood chipped in with three.[2][3][5][6]

The foundation for Brisbane's attacking masterclass was laid in the midfield, where their experienced core dictated terms. Dual Brownlow medalist Lachie Neale was at his prolific best, amassing 35 disposals and driving nine score involvements. He was ably assisted by Will Ashcroft, who collected 25 disposals, and Josh Dunkley, who registered 27 disposals and six tackles to ensure the Lions maintained the ascendancy around the stoppages. Off half-back, veterans Dayne Zorko and Jaspa Fletcher provided relentless drive and precise ball movement that continuously put Collingwood on the back foot.[3]

For Collingwood, the heavy defeat compounds a challenging period as they prepare for the league's inaugural wildcard round. Despite trailing by a manageable 22 points at half-time, the Magpies were blown away in a decisive six-goal-to-two third quarter. To their credit, Collingwood mounted a brief resurgence early in the final term, kicking six consecutive goals to inject a momentary sense of unease into the Brisbane camp. However, the Lions quickly steadied, piling on five of the last six goals to seal the emphatic 63-point result.[1][2]

Amidst the disappointment, Collingwood found strong individual contributors in their midfield. Jordan De Goey fought valiantly, collecting 32 disposals, 10 score involvements, and two goals, while Nick Daicos worked tirelessly for his 26 disposals before being managed late in the game. Youngsters Sam Swadling and Angus Anderson also showed flashes of promise, but the Magpies simply lacked the firepower to match Brisbane's relentless scoring rate.[3]

The result carries significant ladder implications as the 2026 home-and-away season concludes. Brisbane's percentage boost from 119.5 to 121.7 creates a definitive buffer over Hawthorn, locking the Lions into third place. For coach Chris Fagan, the dominant display validates the team's mid-season turnaround—having sat at 6-6 earlier in the year—and reinforces their status as heavy favorites to challenge for a historic premiership three-peat.[1][3][4][5]

As the AFL world turns its attention to the post-season, all eyes will be on Logan Morris and the potent Brisbane attack. If Friday night's masterclass at the MCG is any indication, the Lions possess the offensive weaponry and midfield depth required to navigate the pressures of September football. Collingwood, meanwhile, faces a crucial week of preparation as they look to regroup and keep their 2026 campaign alive in the sudden-death wildcard round.[1][4]