Lions coach Chris Fagan warns Hawthorn that star Hugh McCluggage’s form will rise again

Lions coach Chris Fagan has warned Hawthorn that Brisbane co-captain Hugh McCluggage’s form will further rise in Saturday night’s preliminary final as he continues to lift in his team’s bid to a third successive premiership.

The Lions set up an MCG showdown against the Hawks with a 53-point weekend thumping of Adelaide.

Brisbane’s big Gabba win over the Crows was McCluggage’s second game back from the most recent of his calf problems that have plagued him for a sizeable chunk of the season.

He failed to fire a week earlier against the Sydney Swans in his return match following more than a month on the sidelines.

However, the star midfielder – like a host of other Brisbane players who struggled in the Lions’ loss to the Swans – hit back with an improved performance against Adelaide.

“I knew he’d be better for the run (against Sydney) – that’s why we brought him in for that first final,” Fagan told SEN radio on Monday.

McCluggage acquired 16 possessions in a performance that included two goals.

“He was a lot better on Saturday night. He didn’t necessarily get a lot of the ball, but everything that he did was quality,” Fagan said.

“He just looked better and I expect him to be better again this week.”

Fagan made no apologies for keeping faith with McCluggage and for being “testy” last week when asked about the 2025 All-Australian’s form.

“I love Hugh McCluggage, and he’s been a fantastic footballer for us,” the Lions coach said.

“He’s had a difficult year this year with injury. He didn’t have a good game (against Sydney) but neither did about 19 of his mates.

“I’ll always back my players in, especially guys like him. He’s pretty much been there (with Brisbane) for the whole time I’ve been there.

“His growth as a player and a leader has been outstanding. He deserved my defence.”