In a thrilling AFL preliminary final at the MCG, the Brisbane Lions edged out the Hawthorn Hawks with a 20.11 (131) to 19.8 (122) victory, securing their place in the Grand Final. The match's climax was marked by a contentious holding-the-ball decision against Hawthorn's Jarman Impey in the final moments.
With less than a minute remaining and Hawthorn leading by three points, Impey received a handball from Massimo D’Ambrosio and was promptly tackled by Brisbane's Hugh McCluggage. Despite having an arm free, Impey failed to make a genuine attempt to dispose of the ball, leading umpire Hayden Meyer to award a free kick to McCluggage. The Lions midfielder converted the set shot, putting Brisbane ahead with just 18 seconds left on the clock. (foxsports.com.au)
The decision sparked immediate reactions. Fox Footy commentator Anthony Hudson exclaimed, “The biggest call you have ever seen!” while Garry Lyon described it as “brave” but correct. (foxsports.com.au)
Post-match, Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell acknowledged the difficulty of the umpire's role but subtly pointed to other key moments, including free kicks against Mitch Lewis and Dayne Zorko, as significant in the game's outcome. (afl.com.au)
The match concluded with unsavory scenes as frustrated Hawthorn fans threw bottles at the umpires exiting the field. Mitchell condemned the behavior, emphasizing the importance of channeling passion responsibly. (foxsports.com.au)
Brisbane's victory propels them into their fourth consecutive Grand Final, where they will face Fremantle, aiming for a historic three-peat. (theguardian.com)