The intensity was palpable from the start, with both teams displaying physicality and a strong desire to win. Though,the game will be remembered for the early departure of Magpies legend Scott Pendlebury,who suffered a tight calf and was replaced by Roan Steele,playing in only his fifth game.

Pendlebury appeared disheartened on the sidelines, understandably so, as the injury is likely to prevent him from participating in next week’s grand final, should the Magpies qualify.

The Magpies initially scored the first goal of the game, with Mason Cox converting a free kick awarded due to a blocking foul by Dayne Zorko. However, the Lions took control for the remainder of the quarter, leaving the Magpies with a psychological disadvantage following Pendlebury’s absence.

Despite coach Chris Fagan’s desire for his team to play boldly,the Lions deviated from their usual strategy of attacking through the corridor,and the change proved effective. They scored four consecutive goals, the first by Josh Dunkley after an intercept mark, the second a free kick to Zac Bailey, the third after a remarkable mark by Logan Morris, and the fourth from a fast snap by Ty Gallop.

Josh Dunkley, known for his tagging abilities, spent time marking both Jordan De Goey and Nick Daicos, preventing either Magpie from sparking any inspiration. Meanwhile, Hugh McCluggage, shadowed by Steele Sidebottom, had nine possessions for the Lions, gaining 72 metres.

The magpies need to rediscover their spark during the quarter-time break, or the game could slip away from them.