Brisbane Lions ruckman Oscar McInerney has expressed his contentment with missing out on Saturday's AFL Grand Final clash against the Sydney Swans, following his courageous but ultimately costly performance in last week's preliminary final against Geelong.
Despite dislocating his shoulder twice during the match, McInerney pushed through to contribute to his team's thrilling victory but was ruled out of the season decider soon after.
The 30-year-old has no regrets about the effort he gave:
"I was ecstatic, to be honest," McInerney told Herald Sun, reflecting on the Lions' return to the grand final after last year's heartbreak.
"To go down knowing that I gave it my best and went down swinging, I'm really content with that."
Although sidelined, McInerney remains fully involved in Brisbane's preparations, backing his replacement Darcy Fort as the Lions' "secret weapon" against Sydney's Brodie Grundy.
Fort, who has played only two games this season, is set to take on a crucial role in Saturday's grand final.
"I can't wait to see what all our boys do, but Darcy is the ultimate professional," McInerney added. "He's going to be incredible."
While McInerney has been ruled out, other key Lions stars are battling injury concerns but are expected to play.
Dual Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale has been dealing with a painful heel injury throughout the finals series, but legendary coach Leigh Matthews believes Neale will push through the pain for one last game.
"Mind over matter a bit in grand finals," Matthews told Herald Sun, adding that players often push their limits in pursuit of glory.
Eric Hipwood, another key tall for Brisbane, was limited in training on Thursday due to a groin issue, but like Neale, he is tipped to take the field at the MCG on Saturday.
Hipwood was able to participate in parts of Brisbane's 90-minute main session, with coach Chris Fagan expressing confidence in his ability to contribute.
Both players' ability to manage their injuries will be pivotal for Brisbane, especially as they face a rested Sydney side fresh off a commanding finals campaign.
In McInerney's absence, much will rely on Fort's performance in the ruck battle, with McInerney himself backing his teammate to rise to the occasion.
"He's our surprise weapon," McInerney said. โHopefully, we can keep riding that momentum from the GWS game."
Teammate Jarrod Berry added that the team will be playing for McInerney on grand final day. โHe's one of our favourite sons,โ Berry said. "We'll certainly be playing for him on the weekend."
As the Lions look to secure their first premiership since 2003, their resilience and adaptability in the face of injury will be tested against the Swans, with the stage set for an unforgettable grand final.
