Richmond aren’t just facing this year’s Brisbane team when they head to the Gabba for an AFL qualifying final on September 7 – they’re facing history.
The Lions head into their first finals campaign since 2009 knowing they hold a perfect 10-10 record in finals matches at their home ground.
The Tigers are one of those teams to fall victim to the Lions at the Gabba in September – beaten by 68 points in a 2001 preliminary final as Brisbane charged to the first premiership of their historic three-peat.
While that finals record was built largely on the back of that great team as well as a victory over Carlton in their last finals series in 2009, the Lions have made their home ground a fortress in 2019.
This year the Lions have won 10 at the Gabba with an Easter Thursday blip against Collingwood their only defeat in Brisbane.
Richmond will also be making their first trip away from their home ground since round 16 although they own three from five on the road in 2019.
Key defender Harris Andrews says while home advantage is a boost for the Lions, it won’t be the only thing for the team to end a 13-game losing run against the Tigers.
“I don’t think it changes anything at all to be honest with you,” Andrews said.
“We’re going to have to get our process right.
“They did a really good job on the weekend to beat us and there’s some key learnings we’ll take away from that game.”
BRISBANE’S HOME FINALS RECORD
Played 10, won 10, lost none
1999 – Defeated Carlton and Western Bulldogs
2000 – Defeated Western Bulldogs
2001 – Defeated Port Adelaide and Richmond
2002 – Defeated Adelaide and Port Adelaide
2003 – Defeated Adelaide
2004 – Defeated St Kilda
2009 – Defeated Carlton