Gabba will play host to Thursday's Round 12 AFL game between Brisbane Lions and Essendon Bombers. The game kicks off at 7:30 pm with Brisbane Lions heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Brisbane Lions vs. Essendon Bombers game and give you our free tips and bets.
When: Thursday May 29, 2025 at 7:30 pm
Where: Gabba
Bet: Bet On This Match HERE
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers Odds
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers Preview
Brisbane returns to the Gabba full of momentum after a commanding win over Hawthorn and will be aiming to keep that form rolling against a weakened Essendon on Thursday night. Veteran Dayne Zorko wound back the clock with a standout performance—racking up 33 disposals and nearly 1,000 metres gained—while Callum Ah Chee added firepower up forward with four goals.
Essendon battled hard to secure a 23-point victory over Richmond, led by an impressive showing from Nic Martin. However, injuries to key players Kyle Langford, Zach Reid, and Ben McKay have significantly thinned their ranks.
The Bombers haven’t tasted victory at the Gabba since 2018. Their most recent visit ended in a 20-point defeat, with Lachie Neale dominating the midfield with 40 disposals. With Brisbane’s engine room hitting its stride again and their strong home record, the Lions are well-positioned to exploit Essendon’s undermanned squad.
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers Tip
We're tipping Brisbane Lions to win at $1.08 odds.
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers Teams
BRISBANE LIONS
Backs: D.Zorko, J.Payne, R.Lester
Half-backs: N.Answerth, H.Andrews, D.Wilmot
Centre: J.Fletcher, H.McCluggage, Z.Bailey
Half-forwards: C.Cameron, E.Hipwood, W.Ashcroft
Forwards: C.Rayner, L.Morris, C.Ah Chee
Followers: D.Fort, J.Dunkley, L.Neale
Interchange: K.Lohmann, D.Robertson, J.Berry, L.Ashcroft, D.Gardiner
Emergencies: L.Beecken, t.Gallop, O.McInerney
Changes: None
ESSENDON
Backs: A.McGrath, J.Laverde, A.Roberts
Half-backs: Z.Johnson, M.Redman, J.Prior
Centre: X.Duursma, Z.Merrett, A.Clarke
Half-forwards: A.Perkins, N.Caddy, N.Martin
Forwards: B.Hobbs, P.Wright, I.Kako
Followers: T.Goldstein, J.Caldwell, S.Durham
Interchange: E.Tsatas, J.Gresham, W.Setterfield, M.Guelfi, A.Day-Wicks
Emergencies: D.Shiel, J.Menzie, V.Visentini
In: Z.Johnson, E.Tsatas, A.Day-Wicks
Out: B.McKay, K.Langford, Z.Reid (all injured).