McInerney is playing on for now but should he have to leave the game, how the Lions are able to adjust on the fly will have a huge say on the outcome on this game.
Otherwise, they’ve shown great signs after weathering an early assault by the Cats.
Oscar McInerney of the Lions receives medical attention after injuring his shoulder.Credit: Getty Images
They composed themselves; they won territory. Zac Bailey, who has had a poor finals series to date, slipped young Lawson Humphries repeatedly.
Eric Hipwood bobbing up for a goal will give him the lift he needs, ditto Charlie Cameron, who complemented a goal with a superb inside-50 tackle.
Daniher can ruck capably. The question is whether he can do it for a long period, should McInerney’s shoulder not see out the game.
Age sports reporter Jon Pierik has added some analysis on how McInerney is rucking with his injured shoulder:
McInerney, because of his left-shoulder injury, has been using his right hand to tap the ball.
As Lions’ coaching great and club board director Leigh Matthews pointed out on 3AW, McInerney is left-handed. That makes his challenge even more difficult.