The Brisbane Lions clinched an AFL grand final victory over the Fremantle Dockers on September 26, 2026, overturning a 17-point deficit in the final four minutes of the match at the MCG. Brisbane midfielder Josh Dunkley stated that the team used Fremantle's traditional "Wharfie Time" pre-match and in-game activation as energy to fuel their late-game surge. The dramatic finish saw the Lions secure their third consecutive premiership, leaving the Dockers and their supporters devastated after holding the lead late in the contest.
How Brisbane Capitalized on Wharfie Time in the Final Minutes
Fremantle’s customary “Wharfie Time” bells and graphics flashed on the MCG big screen when the Dockers led by 17 points with barely four minutes remaining. Rather than deflating the Lions, the display served as a catalyst for a decisive comeback. According to Josh Dunkley, speaking to reporters after the match, the Brisbane players looked at each other at the center bounce, connected, and grew a leg to get the job done. Brisbane coach Chris Fagan revealed that backline coach Dale Morris suggested reviewing Wharfie Time during the team’s Friday meeting, instructing players to treat it as a sign to get cracking if Fremantle played it.
Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir downplayed the impact of the activation on the result. Longmuir stated that he did not think it had any impact on the game, comparing it to Charlie Cameron’s goal celebrations. Instead, Longmuir attributed the result to Brisbane being one of the better teams of all time, noting that with their backs against the wall, the Lions found something while Fremantle did not have the answer.
The Norm Smith Medal and Player Reactions to the Grand Final Finish
Fremantle midfielder Shai Bolton was awarded the Norm Smith Medal as best afield, marking the first time since West Coast player Chris Judd in 2005 that the honor went to a player on the losing side. Bolton appeared surprised and reluctant to walk onto the stage to receive the medal or give a speech following the harrowing loss. Fremantle’s Caleb Serong described the finish as horrific in comments to Channel Seven, adding that the experience would ultimately galvanise the side after showing up and playing Fremantle football for the majority of the day.
Chris Fagan offered sympathy to the vanquished opponents in his post-match address. Fagan remarked that while the Dockers would feel tremendously disappointed, they probably deserved to win the game based on their performance. Fagan praised his own players for having a stack of heart and knowing how to fight right to the end to secure the club’s third straight flag.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 AFL Grand Final
Who won the 2026 AFL Grand Final?
The Brisbane Lions defeated the Fremantle Dockers by overcoming a 17-point deficit in the final four minutes of the match.
What is Wharfie Time?
Wharfie Time is a Fremantle club tradition involving bells and big-screen graphics, typically used by the Dockers to energize themselves during tight moments in matches.
Who won the Norm Smith Medal?
Fremantle’s Shai Bolton won the Norm Smith Medal, becoming the first player from a losing side to receive the award since Chris Judd in 2005.
How many consecutive premierships did Brisbane win?
The victory gave the Brisbane Lions three premierships in a row.