The opening term was an entertaining and even contest, with both sides level at the first break.
It was goal for goal early on, until the Demons kicked back-to-back goals via James Frawley and Dean Kent, whose second goal of the match was a beauty on the run.
But when Lion Michael Close kicked truly after the quarter-time siren, both sides had 3.3 on the board.
Second quarter: Melbourne 4.8 (32) to Brisbane Lions 4.3 (27)
Just two goals were added in the second term – one via Lion Pearce Hanley at the four-minute mark and another through Demon co-captain Nathan Jones, midway through the quarter.
Although Melbourne took a five-point buffer into the half-time break, it could have led by a much greater margin, having booted 1.5 for the term.
The Lions’ only score for the quarter was its major to Hanley.
Third quarter: Melbourne 5.13 (43) to Brisbane Lions 5.6 (36)
The third term was riddled with errors and missed opportunities. Melbourne replicated its second term with another 1.5, as the Lions booted 1.3.
Daniel McStay added his second for the Lions – and the first for the second half – at the 16-minute mark, and it wasn’t until after the three quarter-time siren that Melbourne finally converted through Dom Tyson.
Entering the final quarter, the Demons led by seven points.
Final quarter: Brisbane Lions 11.8 (74) d Melbourne 6.15 (51)
Melbourne started the final term positively, when Rohan Bail kicked truly in the opening minute to help his side to a 14-point lead.
But when Daniel Merrett opened the Lions’ account for the term, it was the start of six in a row – and game over for the Demons.
In the end, the Lions capitalised on their outstanding final term, winning by 23 points. For the Demons, it was disappointing day, given they had 21 scoring shots to 19.
