The stage is set for one of Queensland’s fiercest sporting rivalries as the Gold Coast Suns and Brisbane Lions gear up for the NAB AFL Women’s QClash this weekend.
The two clubs will go head-to-head at People First Stadium on Saturday evening, with gates opening at 4:15 pm and the first bounce scheduled for 5:05 pm. Anticipation has been building throughout the week, with both clubs eager to stamp their authority in the tenth season of the AFLW.
Rivalry Heating Up
The QClash has quickly become one of the AFLW’s most hotly contested fixtures. Local bragging rights and ladder positions are on the line, making the clash more than just another round of footy. Gold Coast forward Jacqui Dupuy said the fixture is one that never fails to fire up the playing group.
“It’s always one we mark in the calendar. The rivalry is strong, and we’re hungry to make a statement,” Dupuy said.
For Brisbane, the match carries added meaning for forward Taylor Smith, who has played for both clubs and has watched the QClash rivalry grow year on year. She urged Lions supporters to travel down the M1 and back the reigning powerhouse.
“The rivalry has only gotten stronger, and it’s always a tough contest,” Smith said. “We’d love to see our fans there in big numbers.”
Team News
The Lions are entering the clash in relatively good health. The only setback has been for young draftee Lilly Baker, who is managing a stress reaction in her foot and has been kept to light training on the watt bike. Otherwise, the squad is fit and firing as they prepare for their short trip down the highway.
Gold Coast will be looking to use home advantage and the energy of their growing fan base to push Brisbane to the limit. The Suns’ blend of youthful talent and experienced heads will need to be at their best to challenge a Lions side that has consistently been among the AFLW’s most dominant teams.
What’s at Stake
Beyond local pride, the match offers both teams a chance to build momentum early in the season. Brisbane, with its finals pedigree, will be eager to assert dominance, while the Suns are determined to show they can take the fight to the competition’s elite.
With a sand sculpture promotion on the Gold Coast and heavy community engagement, the AFL has ensured this QClash is more than just a game — it’s a showcase of Queensland women’s football talent.
The Verdict
Fans can expect a fiery contest full of intensity, skill, and passion. With the Lions boasting experience and form on their side, and the Suns desperate to make their mark on home turf, the latest chapter of the QClash promises to deliver all the drama and spectacle AFLW fans have come to love.