SUMMARY
For two of the competition's struggling teams, this match represents the chance for a rare victory and some late season impetus. Since a circuit-breaking win over Essendon three weeks ago, the Lions have been smashed in back-to-back games by Port Adelaide and Adelaide to the tune of 94 and 138 points respectively. And although the Blues got off to a promising start in 2016, the wheels have wobbled of late as they've lost eight-straight matches. Playing an extremely young team, the Lions look tired, but their midfield still has some quality at their best and they just might get a sniff of victory on their home deck. Carlton generally pressures well, and if it can bring some intensity to Brisbane, it might just cause enough turnovers to kick a winning score.
WHERE AND WHEN: The Gabba, Saturday, August 13, 1.45pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R11, 2016, Carlton 16.6 (102) d Brisbane Lions 9.10 (64) at Etihad Stadium
R20, 2015, Brisbane Lions 20.11 (131) d Carlton 9.13 (67) at the Gabba
R6, 2015, Brisbane Lions 12.12 (84) d Carlton 11.9 (75) at Etihad Stadium
R11, 2014, Brisbane Lions 14.14 (98) d Carlton 13.13 (91) at the Gabba
R9, 2013, Carlton 13.20 (98) d Brisbane Lions 12.13 (85) at the Gabba
THE SIX POINTS
1. These teams’ previous contest was over in round 11 by half-time with the Blues kicking eight goals to one. Ed Curnow starred with 28 disposals and 12 tackles and Patrick Cripps had 26 and two goals.
2. The Lions have conceded more points this season than any other team with 131 a game; 20 a game more than the next worst side, Essendon.
3. These teams clash for the 48th time, with the Blues holding a 28-19 advantage. The Lions lead 10-7 at the Gabba and have won three of the past four overall.
4. The Blues are the worst contested possession team this season, averaging 131.2 a game. The Lions are ranked 13th with 137.1.
5. Since round 12, the Lions have lost seven of eight games, with four by more than 70 points, while the Blues have lost eight in a row, with three by 60 points or more.
6. Lions captain Tom Rockliff is having a solid season, but continues to plummet down the Schick AFL Player Ratings. He is now ranked 122nd overall after starting the year at No.64.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Sam Docherty
Not only is the half-back playing his former club, but he's possibly also playing for an All Australian spot. While Carlton's form has wavered in recent months, Docherty has maintained his high level, averaging 26 touches a game. He'd love to notch his first win against the Lions at the Gabba at his third attempt.
