NICK Robertson is being thrown into the finals fire after not playing a senior game for 14 weeks, but Brisbane has total confidence its hard-man can do the job against Greater Western Sydney.
Robertson was chosen from a long list of in-form NEAFL players to replace the injured Mitch Robinson for Saturday night's elimination semi-final at the Gabba.
The last time he played in the AFL was the round 12 loss to Carlton, right before the Lions went on a nine-game winning streak that catapulted them into second place.
Brisbane midfield coach Dale Tapping said Robertson's versatility helped give him an edge.
"We feel Nick gives us some options in terms of midfield and back-half strength," Tapping said at the Lions' final training run on Friday morning.
"He's got great running power and we think that'll be useful throughout the course of the game."
Brisbane midfield coach Dale Tapping speaks to the media. AFL Photos
Robertson could replace Robinson directly on the wing, or potentially in the backline – possibly to oppose Toby Greene – and push impressive first-year player Noah Answerth to a flank.
The 24-year-old beat players such as Lewy Taylor, Ryan Bastinac, Tom Cutler and Cedric Cox to a senior recall.
Robertson is best known for his aggressive, no-nonsense approach - something the Lions want him to bring against the Giants.
"He plays the game in the right manner, a lot of aggression, which is good," Tapping said.
Nick Robertson and Lance Franklin have words in R10 of 2018. Picture: AFL Photos
"But at the same time you need to have a calm head around what you're doing. The rules limit you from doing too much.
"We're pleased for him and he can have impact for us."
After losing to Richmond in front of a capacity crowd last week, the Lions look like playing to 30,000-plus spectators again.
They will get more opportunities in front of bumper crowds in coming seasons after it was announced they would hold Easter Thursday games at the Gabba against Collingwood in 2020 and 2021 and another Victorian club in 2022.
