Zorko in better mindset to beat tag: Lions

Brisbane coach Chris Fagan says Dayne Zorko is in a better mindset to beat the tag ahead of Sunday's AFL clash with Collingwood at the Gabba.

The challenge of beating a tag has not always been embraced by Brisbane vice captain Dayne Zorko - just ask Gold Coast's Touk Miller.

But Lions coach Chris Fagan believes Zorko has finally learned to welcome the threat ahead of Sunday's AFL clash with Collingwood at the Gabba.

Zorko's frustration over attracting a tag this season boiled over when he refused to shake hands with Miller after a running battle with his Suns nemesis two weeks ago.

However, Fagan said Zorko was in a better mindset since seeking advice this week after the 2017 All-Australian was restricted to just 10 disposals for the second straight game against Greater Western Sydney last round.

"Many players have been through it. Dayne spoke with a couple of those guys this week to get a bit of advice, which has been beneficial," Fagan said.

"He has to learn ways to go through that, whether it is tactical or go into different positions, whether it is lifting workrate or changing attitude.

"It's a challenge he is embracing. He will come through the other side a better player for it."

Competitive but winless after the first six rounds, Brisbane know they need Zorko firing if they are to break their 2018 drought.

Fagan believes the midfielder needs help from teammates if they are to break their duck on Sunday.

"We have to help him out a bit more as a team. What we have to do is be a better team with more midfielders worth stopping," Fagan said.

"It (being tagged) is a phase you go through. Once you become a really good player and teams recognise it they will try to find ways to stop you.

"It's a credit to him that he has become such a good player, that the opposition see him so pivotal to how we play."

After a last round rest, veteran defender and Hawthorn great Luke Hodge returns for Brisbane.

Winner of reality TV show The Recruit, Matt Eagles, will make his AFL debut for the Lions.

The Magpies have beaten Brisbane in six of their past seven games and won the last four at the Gabba.

But Collingwood (3-3 record) appear vulnerable after playing two games in five days last week.

The Magpies made four changes, injecting Darcy Moore, Taylor Adams, Travis Varcoe and Ben Crocker.


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Source: AAP



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