In the absence of McInerney due to concussion, Fort stepped up to the challenge as the sole contributor against the Giants, who were led by caretaker coach Mark McVeigh following Leon Cameron’s mid-season departure. Fort delivered his career-best performance with 19 possessions, including 17 contested possessions and eight clearances. The Lions, guided by Hugh McCluggage’s outstanding performance, secured a 40-point victory.
Although Fort has played only 11 games since then, his absence will be felt as the 2024 Lions aim for their third consecutive interstate win without McInerney. Notably, the team has undergone significant changes since their last visit to Canberra, with several players experiencing their first games at Manuka Oval.
Despite missing key players like Rich, Ashcroft, Bailey, Coleman, and McInerney, as well as Gunston who has returned to Hawthorn, the Lions have potential inclusions like McKenna and Joyce, who could boost the team’s versatility.
Reflecting on their previous triumph in Canberra, where they defeated the Giants by 21 points, the Lions are aware of the challenge posed by an improved Giants lineup, which has enjoyed success since their last encounter.
As they prepare for Thursday’s match, the Lions anticipate introducing at least four players to the Canberra stage, including Fletcher, Lester, Lohmann, and Tunstill. Lester’s milestone of playing at his 18th different venue reflects the team’s diverse playing experiences, with several players featuring prominently on the club’s “most venues played at” list.
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Jonathan Jonathan