From Caboolture News
BRISBANE Lions captain Jed Adcock has tipped most of his side’s big names will be fit for the pre-season match against the Sydney Swans at Burpengary next month.
The Lions trained at the Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex on Thursday, a test for the new $13 million facility and the Brisbane group under the guidance of new coach Justin Leppitsch.
Adcock said a question mark still hung over former captain Jonathon Brown.
“Usually come the last game (of pre-season) you’ll be playing your strongest team so everyone will be fighting for that last game,” he said.
“(Fullback Daniel Merrett) will be ready to go round one; he’ll play NAB Cup. Browny’s really your main one.
“(New recruit) Jackson Paine will probably play. He’s moving back into full training now.”
It was the group’s first full-match simulation of the season, following shorter game-like hitouts earlier in the week.
Adcock said the Lions were pleasantly surprised by the Burpengary facilities.
“It’s in fantastic nick, two ovals, the facilities inside, the change rooms are really nice,” he said.
“The ground’s a bit bigger; more of an AFL-sized ground compared to Coorparoo where we train.”
Midfielder James Aish caused excitement when the Lions picked him up with their first 2013 draft selection.
The 18-year-old has been working closely with club legend and assistant coach Simon Black in pre-season.
“A Brownlow (medal) would be nice,” the captain joked.
“You want him to contribute in a way and be able to buy in to the game plan.
“That’s all it is in your first couple of years, being able to get your role done and let the more experienced players worry about the structures and the game plans.”
Caboolture Lions juniors Byron and Tyler Rickertt made the most of the chance to meet their heroes.
Tickets are on sale for the Moreton Bay Festival of Football, a full day of Aussie Rules, including the Lions V Swans match. Visit: www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/burpengaryafl for more details.
