Longmuir Won't Take Wounded Lions Lightly at the Gabba

Justin Longmuir knows better than to poke a sleeping lion, especially when that lion happens to be the reigning premiers with something to prove at fortress Gabba.

Respect for the Defending Champs

The Fremantle mentor isn’t buying into any talk that Brisbane are there for the taking after copping consecutive defeats. Longmuir has refused to underestimate reigning premiers Brisbane despite back-to-back defeats, showing the kind of respect you’d expect from a coach who’s been around the traps.

Brisbane might be nursing some wounds, but they’re still the same mob who lifted the cup last year. The Lions’ recent stumbles don’t wipe away their class overnight, and Longmuir clearly remembers what happened to teams that got too cocky against quality opposition.

Gabba Fortress Factor

Playing at the Gabba adds another layer to this equation. Brisbane have turned their home ground into a genuine fortress over recent seasons, and even a wounded lion can still bite when cornered on familiar turf.

For Fremantle, this shapes up as a perfect test of their credentials. The AFL season is all about seizing opportunities when they present themselves, but smart coaches know the difference between confidence and complacency.

Longmuir’s measured approach suggests he understands exactly what his team is walking into this weekend. Brisbane might be bleeding, but they’re still dangerous — and that’s precisely why the Dockers can’t afford to take their foot off the gas.

FD — Sports reporter, australiafootball.com