DFS Gold at the Gabba: Lions vs Crows DraftStars Preview

Sunday afternoon footy at the Gabba is always a cracking spectacle, and this April 2026 showdown between the Brisbane Lions and Adelaide Crows is no exception. Brisbane is looking to defend their fortress, but a hungry, youthful Adelaide outfit won't make it easy. With two dynamic midfields going to war on a fast deck, expect a high-scoring fantasy frenzy with plenty of points up for grabs.

Our FootyBets.ai algorithm has crunched the numbers, and a few undeniable locks have emerged. Adelaide big man Toby Murray and ball-winner Charlie Edwards appear in every single one of our optimal lineups. Murray is set to grind out plenty of hard-earned points through hitouts and around-the-ground tackles, while Edwards will be busy racking up clearances and inside ball.

For the Lions, Hugh McCluggage (90% exposure) and Will Ashcroft (80%) are tipped to run riot. Ashcroft is an absolute ball magnet projected for a massive 102.0 points, thriving on contested disposals and tackles. Meanwhile, McCluggage will carve the Crows up on the outside, padding his score with uncontested marks and silky inside-50 entries. You'll also want heavy exposure to Zac Bailey (90%); his X-factor means he can push up the ground for cheap touches before drifting forward to slot a couple of snags.

Here is your quick positional cheat sheet to help you dominate the slate:

• RUC: Don't overthink it—Toby Murray is the undisputed anchor for your squad. Let him do the heavy lifting in the ruck contests.
• DEF: Target Wayne Milera for premium Crows rebound run and bounce, while Brisbane veteran Ryan Lester provides brilliant stability through intercept marks.
• MID: It's all about the Brisbane bulls. Build around the ceiling of Will Ashcroft or Lachie Neale for monster disposal counts, and mix in Sam Berry for tackling pressure.
• FWD: Zac Bailey is your premium utility, but don't sleep on Adelaide's Josh Rachele for high-impact scoreboard pressure and crucial tackles inside the forward arc.

Ready to take out the prize pool? Scroll down to check out the Top 10 optimal lineups our AI has cooked up for this clash!