Dayne Zorko and Darcy Gardiner are no certainty to play in Brisbane's clash with Melbourne in nine days' time, after sustaining injuries during the Lions' victory over St Kilda on Saturday night.
Scans on Monday confirmed Zorko has suffered a minor hamstring strain and will now race against the clock to prove his fitness in order to play against the reigning premiers.
Gardiner, meanwhile, left the field after suffering what appeared to be a back ailment.
Speaking to media post-game on Saturday night, Lions senior coach Chris Fagan shed some light on the injuries to his two key players.
"I know only that 'Zorks' has got a sore hamstring and obviously we'll find out a little bit more about that [throughout the week]," Fagan said.
"I think Darcy got a knock on those ribs again from last week. So I'm hopeful that's not too bad."
Zorks' scans are in while Darcy Gardiner required medical treatment post game.
Qscan Group Injury Update below 📲https://t.co/sP9PemD4nD
— Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) June 13, 2022
Zorko, 33, has been a revelation for the Lions this season, playing everywhere from the midfield, to half-forward, to down back, showcasing his skill execution by foot and hardness at the contest, while the 26-year-old Gardiner has been typically reliable alongside Harris Andrews.
They will be sorely missed by their teammates and Fagan should they not get up for the top-of-the-table showdown at the MCG, which is set to take place on Thursday week with both the Lions and Demons on byes this upcoming weekend.
