Follow AFL opening round 2026, results, odds, squads and start time from the Gabba, Brisbane.

He’s got legs, and he knows how to use them as Zane Zakostelsky showed with that top spoil on Sam Davidson. The Bulldogs have wasted some solid goal scoring opportunities that they may regret later.

It’s that man Bailey again, drilling a running goal. But, hang on, a score review has found it was touched on the line. The goal umpire did not call for a review, but all goals are automatically reviewed. So the ball will now head from the centre to fullback.

The Bulldogs have settled, Ed Richards taking possession and snapping successfully with his trusty left foot from about 35m. The visitors needed this. Tom Liberatore took a heavy early hit, but remains on the field.

We are on deck at the Gabba. If this was a cricket match you’d bowl as the clouds are heavy and it is humid. It’s a good atmosphere though as the Lions unfurled their flag and the crowd poured in. The Dogs look right up for the fight early.

Zac Bailey wins a free kick and converts from about 40m. Bailey is one of the hottest free agents this season, his ability to find space and convert elite.

Sam Darcy had a chance to respond for the Lions, but botched a set shot. The Lions lead by 10 points.

Charlie Cameron has had a strong pre-season, his form superb. And that’s carried over early here, the star small forward marking about 35 metres from goal, and converting the first major of the season for the Lions.

As my colleague Peter Ryan notes from the Gabba: [Take Me Home] Country Roads was nearly Liberatore’s farewell song as he went to ground during the rendition following Charlie Cameron’s first goal for the season.

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