Darragh Joyce Returns for Lions Game Against Carlton

Brisbane’s lions game against Carlton at the Gabba will feature Darragh Joyce back in the side after Ty Gallop was ruled out with concussion. The recall comes before Friday night’s round nine match, with Brisbane at 5-3 and trying to keep its place in the top four.

Joyce Back At The Gabba

Joyce was brought in for Gallop as Brisbane shuffled its back line for the meeting with Carlton. The defender’s return gives the Lions one of their listed changes before a game that carries different pressure for both clubs, with Brisbane at 5-3 and Carlton at 1-7.

Gallop’s absence is the one forced change in Brisbane’s selection. The concussion call removed him from a side that has already moved into the top four this season, and Joyce’s inclusion is the direct response to that setback.

Carlton Names Hewett

Carlton made its own adjustments, naming George Hewett for his first senior game after a month in the VFL. Billy Wilson also came into the side, while Liam Reidy and Matt Cottrell were omitted.

The selection moves leave Carlton with a different look again as it tries to interrupt a seven-game losing run. Brisbane’s changes are narrower, but Joyce’s recall still alters the defensive mix for a match that starts with a clear split in form and results.

Friday Night At Adelaide Oval

The same Friday night also brought changes for Port Adelaide and the Western Bulldogs at Adelaide Oval. Port Adelaide dropped Todd Marshall and brought in Jack Watkins, while the Western Bulldogs made four changes for their match against Port Adelaide.

For Brisbane, though, the main point is simpler: Joyce is in, Gallop is out, and the Lions go into round nine with a selection move shaped by concussion rather than choice. That leaves the Gabba side with a fresh defensive option as it looks to protect a 5-3 start.