The Gabba No Longer a Fortress for Brisbane Lions

The Brisbane Lions' home ground, the Gabba, has become less dominant for the team since the beginning of 2024. Prior to 2024, from 2019 to 2023, the Lions achieved a strong home record, winning 53 out of 61 matches overall, including 49 of 53 in the home and away season.

A Shift in Fortune at Home

Since an Opening Round match in 2024 where Carlton overcame a 44-point deficit to win, Brisbane has experienced increased vulnerability at home. In the past 25 home matches, the Lions have lost nine, a number exceeding their total losses in the preceding five seasons combined.

The Lions' recent nine home losses in 25 matches surpass their combined total losses from 2019-2023.

Teams that have secured victories at the Gabba during this period include Carlton, Collingwood (twice), Geelong, Greater Western Sydney (twice), Melbourne, Sydney, and the Western Bulldogs.

Year-by-Year Home Performance

In 2024, Brisbane's home record was 8-4, and it remained 8-4 in 2025. The 2026 season opened with a home loss to the Western Bulldogs, resulting in a 0-1 record so far for that year.

Coach Fagan's Explanation

Lions coach Chris Fagan has offered an explanation for the shift in performance. He suggested that during their period of dominance, other teams may not have viewed them as a significant threat.

"Now, teams approaching matches at the Gabba recognize the Lions as a strong club and prepare more intensely for the contest."

Fagan noted that this increased opposition preparedness makes winning home games more challenging and emphasizes the need for the team to perform effectively without solely relying on home-ground advantage.

Statistical Dip Amidst Clutch Performance

Despite the home winning percentage dropping from 87% (2019-2023) to 64% (2024-current), the Lions have demonstrated the ability to perform in critical situations. They hold a 2-0 record in do-or-die finals over the past two years against Carlton and Gold Coast. Additionally, they secured a victory in a must-win final-round match against Hawthorn last season, which secured a top-four position.

A Curious Premiership Trend

Historically, the team that lost the Easter Thursday contest in the past three seasons has subsequently won the premiership.