The Brisbane Lions delivered a statement performance in the opening round of the AFLW season, accounting for Essendon by 48 points at Windy Hill to set an early benchmark for the competition. Despite the lopsided scoreline, two Bombers — Emily Gough and Maddison Gay — gave the home faithful genuine reasons for optimism amid an otherwise difficult afternoon.

Lions too quick, too strong from the opening bounce

Brisbane wasted no time asserting themselves, controlling centre clearances and territory throughout the first half to build a commanding eight-goal lead by the main break. The Lions' dominance was built on contributions spread across the entire ground, with no single opponent able to slow their momentum.

Jade Ellenger was the standout performer in the midfield, besting Essendon's Madison Prespaskis in a hard-fought battle. Prespaskis worked productively but could not contain the wave of Lions ball use that flowed repeatedly into attack.

Dakota Davidson was the primary beneficiary, finishing with four goals thanks to strong support inside 50 from Catherine Svarc and Neasa Dooley. The result was a polished team performance that has made next week's grand final rematch appointment viewing.

Gough's snap and Gay's hanger — the Bombers' two high points

For all Brisbane's dominance, Essendon supporters packed into the old grandstand at Windy Hill were given moments to savour. Emily Gough produced one of the game's highlights with a clever snap goal directly in front of the grandstand, showcasing the kind of ability that gives the Bombers genuine hope for the season ahead.

The other standout moment came in the second quarter when Maddison Gay took a spectacular mark at centre-half-back — a hanger that drew a loud response from the crowd. Gay played well throughout, and while the Bombers leaned heavily on a handful of individuals, her performance indicated she could be a key figure as the season develops.

Up forward, Bonnie Toogood was industrious despite limited service, kicking Essendon's sole goal of the first half and competing hard in both the air and at ground level. The challenge for Essendon's coaching staff will be ensuring more players contribute alongside their standouts — a stark contrast to Brisbane's deep list of contributors on the day.

A reality check Essendon had seen coming

The heavy defeat was not entirely unexpected for the Bombers, who started last season with three wins against weaker opposition before finding that form misleading once the competition stiffened. That false dawn means this year's opening-round loss, while sharp in scoreline, carries some perspective — Essendon now know exactly where they stand against elite opposition.

Crucially, the Bombers' capacity to stay competitive — even as the scoreboard blew out — offers some encouragement. The experience of competing against a side of Brisbane's calibre at this stage of the season is the kind of preparation that can sharpen a young group heading into a tough schedule.

What's next for Essendon and Brisbane

The Lions' victory sets up a blockbuster clash against reigning premiers North Melbourne, with the build-up already generating significant anticipation. For Essendon, attention turns to a Round 2 encounter with Sydney — a game the Bombers will approach with renewed focus after absorbing Saturday's lessons.

The challenge for Essendon is translating individual brilliance — the kind shown by Gough and Gay — into a more collective effort. If they can widen their contributor base, the Bombers have the character to improve markedly as the season progresses. For now, Brisbane have set the standard, and Essendon know precisely what they are chasing.