Brisbane snatches grand final as Fremantle's Wharfie Time backfires
Brisbane kicked four consecutive goals after Fremantle activated Wharfie Time with four minutes left, claiming a historic three-peat premiership.
Fremantle's AFL grand final hopes collapsed in the final minutes after the club's in-game celebration moment went spectacularly wrong. With just over four minutes remaining and Fremantle ahead by 17 points, coach Justin Longmuir activated Wharfie Time, the tradition involving bells and crowd celebration.
Brisbane kicked four straight goals to seal one of the most improbable victories in grand final history. Brisbane players later admitted they had discussed Wharfie Time beforehand and prepared to use it to their advantage.
The Lions' co-captain Josh Dunkley fired up his teammates the moment the bells sounded, and the comeback was complete. Many pundits and fans called for the tradition to be retired after the heartbreaking loss.
However, Longmuir refused to blame Wharfie Time, comparing it to other team celebrations and saying the loss came down to Brisbane's quality and resilience.
- 17 points
- Fremantle's lead when bells sounded
- Just over 4 minutes
- Time remaining
- 4 straight goals
- Brisbane's response
- Twice before the grand final
- Times used this season
Why it mattersOne of the most dramatic grand final collapses in AFL history has reignited debate about pre-match rituals and whether they influence game outcomes.
AustraliaFremantle's loss means the club remains without a premiership in its history. Brisbane's three consecutive premierships is a historic achievement in the modern AFL era.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 38 min ago
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