The Queensland government’s decision to impose a three-day lockdown on Greater Brisbane has today meant the AFL has moved Thursday night’s clash between the Brisbane Lions and Collingwood to Marvel Stadium.
The news came after Brisbane recorded four consecutive days of community COVID-19 transmission – jumping from one case per day to four today. The Lions have been stuck in Victoria since news of the transmission broke on Friday night and will now remain in the Victorian capital ahead of Thursday’s clash.
Round 22’s clash between the Lions and Magpies, originally scheduled for Marvel Stadium, will now be played at The Gabba – so Brisbane won’t lose a home game.
It is understood the declaration of Brisbane as a hot spot would’ve been an even bigger problem for Collingwood, who are due to play West Coast in Perth on April 16. At this stage, neither the Sydney Swans, Gold Coast Suns or North Melbourne – who’ve played games in Queensland this year – appear to be affected by the move.
Part of the AFL’s statement reads as follows;
“The AFL confirms the Round Three match between the Brisbane Lions and Collingwood will move from the Gabba to Marvel Stadium.
“The match will be played on the same day and same time as scheduled, Thursday April 1 at 7:40pm AEDT.
“The previously scheduled Round 22 match between Collingwood and Brisbane Lions at Marvel Stadium will now be held at the Gabba.
“The decision to switch the games comes as the Queensland Government announced a three-day lockdown in Brisbane from 5:00pm today.
“The Brisbane Lions team will remain in Melbourne with the AFL to work through further arrangements post Thursday night.
“AFL General Manager Broadcasting and Clubs Travis Auld said the direct switch of venues was the logical decision based on putting the health and safety of the community first.
“Fans who had previously purchased tickets to the Gabba match in Round Three have the opportunity to use their tickets for the Round 22 return match or receive a full refund.”
