Darcy Gardiner and Oscar McInerney chosen to take premiership cup to Brisbane Lions rooms after 2024 injuries

It was no coincidence that Darcy Gardiner and Oscar McInerney were chosen to have the premiership cup in their hands when Brisbane walked back into the changerooms to celebrate their grand final victory over Geelong on Saturday. The cup had passed through many sets of hands on the field as the team completed its lap of honour, but Gardiner and McInerney had it when they returned to family and friends after missing out on last year’s premiership. Gardiner played only seven games in 2024 before a knee reconstruction ended his year. McInerney dislocated his shoulder in the preliminary final and joined him on the sidelines. Gardiner said winning the premiership with the ruckman made the occasion feel incredible. “It’s pretty special,” he said. “Last year, from a long time out I knew I wouldn’t be playing. It’d be a different feeling having it the week before after playing every single game to get the team there. “I don’t know what he would have gone through last year. You are thinking about it on the way to get there – it could happen but it’s a small percentage. For it to occur is pretty amazing.” “He’s just a big friendly giant. He’d do anything for you. He minds his own business but loves his teammates to death.” Gardiner did a superb job on Jeremy Cameron before the Cats star left the field with a suspected fractured arm. Cameron had only eight disposals and didn’t kick a goal before getting hurt. That defensive effort showed why Gardiner has been such an important part of Brisbane’s backline for over a decade. Gardiner paid tribute to coach Chris Fagan for always giving him the confidence to believe he was needed whenever injury struck. “He’s an amazing human being,” Gardiner said. “I’ve had a few challenges over the last few years, injury wise and body wise while our team has been at the top, which isn’t easy. He’s always been one who has pulled me aside at times and re-assured me that when I’m up and going I am good enough to be in the team. I’m very fortunate to have him as part of my journey.”