Brisbane powered to a commanding 57-point win over Fremantle at Optus Stadium, with their 15.11 (101) to 5.14 (44) victory underlining both their finals credentials and the Dockers’ ongoing struggles in front of goal.
The opening quarter set the tone. Fremantle dominated territory and ruck contests but failed to convert, kicking five behinds without reward. Brisbane, far more clinical, struck through Charlie Cameron and Joe Daniher to establish a 15-point lead at the first break.
The Dockers briefly rallied in the second term as Michael Walters and Josh Treacy found goals, but every surge was matched by the Lions’ composure. Hugh McCluggage and Lachie Neale controlled the midfield, while Keidean Coleman’s rebound carved through Fremantle’s defensive setup. At half time Brisbane’s advantage was only eight points, but their efficiency was obvious.
After the break, the Lions crushed Fremantle’s resistance. Winning clearances and dominating inside 50s, Brisbane piled on five goals to one in the third quarter to blow the margin out to 31 points. Eric Hipwood and Cam Rayner stretched the Dockers’ defence, while Brisbane’s midfield lifted another gear.
The final quarter became a procession, with Brisbane adding five more majors as Fremantle managed just one in reply. The Dockers’ inaccuracy—finishing with 5.14—summed up their night, while Brisbane surged past the 100-point mark.
Numbers told the story: Brisbane collected 395 disposals to Fremantle’s 289 and out-kicked them 268 to 168. Despite losing hit-outs, the Lions’ ground-level work and cleaner ball use proved decisive. Caleb Serong and Andrew Brayshaw toiled for the Dockers, but lacked support.
Brisbane left Perth with momentum and belief, while Fremantle were left to reflect on wasteful scoring and the gulf to the competition’s top sides.
The chicken pops at Optus Stadium put a twist on classic popcorn chicken, trading bite-sized pieces for arancini-style spheres. Each portion feels more substantial, with a crisp golden coating that gives way to juicy chicken inside. The larger size means you actually get to savour the meat, not just the crumb, and they hold seasoning well. A hint of pepper and garlic comes through, though the flavour relies heavily on dipping sauces—barbecue and aioli were standouts.
At $16.95, they sit on the slightly high end for stadium food. It’s not outrageous given the portion and quality, but enough to make you pause before grabbing a second serve. Still, they’re undeniably satisfying as a game-day snack—easy to share yet filling enough that one serve does the job. For footy fare, they’re a solid option: comforting, tasty, and built for four quarters of grazing.
The butter chicken curry at Optus Stadium is one of the more substantial offerings, served with biryani rice and two small naan breads. The curry leans toward the mild, creamy side—rich in tomato and butter but light on spice, making it approachable for most. The chicken pieces are tender enough, though a little more depth of flavour would elevate it.
The biryani rice is fragrant and well-cooked, adding texture and colour to the dish. The naan breads, while soft, are on the smaller side—closer to mini flat-breads than the fluffy naan you might expect, but still useful for scooping up sauce.
At $18.95, it pushes the high end of stadium pricing. It feels like value in portion size compared to lighter snacks, but still makes you think twice before ordering. That said, it’s hearty, warming, and a welcome alternative to the usual chips and burgers.
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