Brisbane Lions secure Grand Final berth after win over Hawks

Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan endorsed the controversial holding the ball decision against Hawthorn's Jarman Impey in the closing moments of their preliminary final matchup on September 19, 2026. With just 40 seconds remaining, Impey received a free kick that was converted by Hugh McCluggage, helping the Lions edge out Hawthorn in a tightly contested game. Fagan stated that he would expect a similar call if the roles were reversed, affirming the umpire's judgment on the play. This victory marks Brisbane's fourth consecutive Grand Final appearance.

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