JASPAR WILSON-KEIR | MARCH 30, 2026
SOUTHPORT has produced a dominant second-half performance to defeat Brisbane by 21 points in their Round 2 clash, overturning an early deficit to record a 19.8 (122) to 15.11 (101) victory.
Southports Sam Day kicks for goal against Brisbane.
After trailing at quarter time, the Sharks worked their way into the contest with a strong second term before a devastating third-quarter surge broke the game open.
With Southport hungry after last week’s loss, Finn Hay opened proceedings with a goal in the first two minutes. However, Brisbane made the early running jumping out of the blocks to take a 10-point lead into the first change.
Southport responded in the second quarter, lifting around the contest and beginning to generate repeat inside 50 entries. A four-goal to two term saw the Sharks edge ahead by a single point at the main break, 52 to 51, setting the stage for a decisive second half.
The third quarter proved the difference. Southport took complete control of the contest, piling on 10 goals to three in a blistering display that swung momentum firmly in its favour.
Campbell Lake was electric during the surge, producing a stunning patch of football with three goals in the term, including back-to-back finishes that ignited the Sharks’ forward line.
Sam Lowson also got to work at ground level with two goals in the quarter, as the small forwards capitalised on the midfield’s dominance and relentless forward pressure.
Through the middle, captain Jacob Dawson led from the front with a commanding performance, finishing with 42 disposals, 16 clearances and a goal. Boyd Woodcock provided strong support with 39 disposals, as the pair controlled proceedings around the contest.
In defence, Ryan Burton stood tall with 29 disposals and 11 marks, while Jesse Joyce continued his strong form, proving crucial in the back half with his composure and positioning.
The Lions mounted a late challenge in the final term, but the damage had already been done, with Southport’s third-quarter blitz proving decisive as it held firm to secure an impressive win.
Campbell Lake finished as the standout forward with four goals from 17 disposals, while Hewago Oea, Sam Lowson and Noah Casalini each contributed two goals in a well-rounded attacking performance.
BRISBANE 5.5 7.9 10.11 15.11 (101)
SOUTHPORT 4.1 8.4 8.6 19.8 (122)
GOALS: Lake 4, Casalini 2, Lowson 2, Oea 2, Aston, Butler, Dawson, Day, Foot, Gadsby, Hay, Reardon, Rowe
BEST PLAYERS: J.Dawson, Lake, Woodcock, Oea, Joyce, Bowman
Click here for stats, replays and more
