Racing
League
Rugby
Cricket
Golf
Motorsport
Combat Sports
Football
Netball
Basketball
Other Sports
Sport Nation
Brisbane veteran Zorko praises Giants' generosity in the wake of Cyclone Alfred
Connor Scanlon • March 11th, 2025 1:42 pm
Brisbane Lions veteran Dayne Zorko has shared his thoughts on some of the biggest AFL headlines, including the fiery exchange between Craig McRae and Adam Kingsley, GWS’s generous offer for the Lions given Cyclone Alfred, concerns over pushes in marking contests, and Finn Callaghan’s breakout performance on the weekend.
Speaking on SENQ Breakfast, Zorko was first asked about the interaction between the two coaches on Sunday afternoon:
Zorko on the McRae-Kingsley Incident
The Opening Round clash between Collingwood and GWS saw tensions boil over, with Magpies coach Craig McRae and Giants coach Adam Kingsley exchanging heated words on the sidelines.
Zorko welcomed the passion on display.
“We want to see all that emotion,” Zorko told SENQ Breakfast.
“There’s nothing better than seeing your coach being extremely passionate. You can see the buy-in that he’s got for the footy club… and he wants his players to win at all costs.”
However, he suggested the AFL may need step in for some clarification.
“I think a phone call to both parties and a ‘please explain’ is the answer,” he added.
Zorko on GWS Offering Training Facilities to the Lions
With Cyclone Alfred leaving Brisbane in carnage, the Lions were left in need of a temporary training ground. GWS extended an invitation to use their facilities in Sydney, a gesture Zorko greatly appreciated.
“I think we might be training out of Engie Stadium, out near the Giants’ facilities,” he confirmed.
“That was nice of them to offer to have us out there.
“It’s amazing how strong the AFL community is… It’s an amazing community to be part of.”
Zorko on Players Being Pushed in Marking Contests
Recent incidents involving players being shoved into marking contests have raised talks of a potential rule change. Zorko weighed in on the issue, referencing a particular moment involving GWS ruckman Kieren Briggs, who was concussed on the weekend.
“That one was a little bit different I thought… With Briggsy, that was more of a marking contest. He just got in a really awkward position.”
However, he acknowledged that some incidents had crossed the line.
“There were a couple in the pre-season that probably didn’t look great… There were a couple that were quite dangerous.”
The AFL is yet to introduce any new rules, but Zorko believes players will begin to self-regulate.
“We haven’t been informed by the AFL yet as to what’s going to happen moving forward, but I think players can see the damage they’re causing, and I reckon that will almost be enough for players to think twice before they recklessly do it.”
While acknowledging the pushing tactic's strategic intent, Zorko admitted it has been taken too far at times.
“There’s no malice in it… it’s a tactical move.”
“We’ve probably seen it go a little bit too reckless. I think the players now are somewhat aware of it… I think you will find (the incidents) will level itself out.”
Zorko on Finn Callaghan’s Breakout Performance
Zorko was full of praise for GWS young gun Finn Callaghan, who made headlines after rejecting a massive $17 million, 10-year offer from St Kilda and delivering a dominant performance in Opening Round, racking up 33 disposals and kicking two goals.
“For him to come out and put in a performance like that… his ability to break lines and take the game on was phenomenal,” he said.
“He stood up enormously with the outs they had.”
Zorko knows first-hand how dangerous Callaghan can be.
“He’s obviously a classy talent, we experienced that first-hand last year… He absolutely tore us apart,” he said.
“I think this year he’s going to do it on a more consistent basis and be a real threat for opposition.”
