Hugh McCluggage and the Brisbane Lions are set to take on the Geelong Cats in the 2025 AFL Grand Final after losing to them three weeks ago in the qualifying final.
"We got outplayed last time, but we look forward to another shot," said McCluggage.
The Brisbane star is eager to face the challenge of being tagged once again, with the excitement to prove he has learned a few lessons from the qualifying final.
McCluggage was held to only 14 disposals in their previous matchup, with Oisin Mullin playing a tagging role on him, but Brisbane will prepare for any possible options.
"They are all versatile, they've got a lot of options, and we will prepare for a lot of different things," said McCluggage.
The first time All-Australian also spoke on the importance of his teammates Will Ashcroft and Zac Bailey, with their great finals campaign so far.
"[Ashcroft] comes into the midfield and has those bursts where he dominates the game for 5-10 minute patches."
"[He] loves the big moments, so I'm sure he's looking forward to another good game this weekend," said McCluggage.
Zac Bailey has played a more midfield role since the reigning Brownlow medallist, Lachie Neale, has gone down, and McCluggage was nothing but praise about his importance to the team.
"He brings that offensive flair. He's always had that, but now has developed that defensive side of the game," said McCluggage of Bailey.
"[He] plays all those positions really well, so if you're an opposition team, I suppose it's hard to know where he will line up, and how to stop him."
Young gun Levi Ashcroft is set to play in his first AFL grand final, coming in his first AFL season, and he spoke about the amazing opportunity he has.
"Sky high at the moment, definitely pumped, first year to be able to be in a grand final, surreal to think," said Levi Ashcroft.
"I'm definitely been proud of what I've been able to achieve."
The young star is also set to play alongside his brother, Will Ashcroft, in a grand final.
"Dream come true, for both of us," he said. "So proud and so lucky to play for a club like the Brisbane Lions."
The Brisbane Lions will face the Geelong Cats this Saturday at 2:30 at the MCG, where the winner will lift the 2025 premiership trophy.
