Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale to join Will Ashcroft for Perth sportsman’s night

Lachie Neale says he “still feels the love” from WA footy fans as he prepares to front a Perth function to reveal all about his epic journey to grand final glory.

Neale was at the forefront of one of the great modern-day premiership stories, recovering from what was initially touted as a season-ending calf tear to earn selection for last month’s decider.

The veteran midfielder started as Brisbane’s sub before coming on at half-time and playing a key role in the Lions’ victory that marked back-to-back premierships.

Dual Brownlow medallist Neale will team up with dual Norm Smith medallist Will Ashcroft to open up about a wild ride across the past month and share some premiership secrets at a sportsman’s night at City Beer Hall Perth on October 23.

“I’m looking forward to coming back to Perth which has always been like a second home to me,” Neale said.

“I can’t wait to talk to the WA supporters and share some premiership stories with my two-time Norm Smith Medal-winning teammate Will Ashcroft.

“I still feel the love from footy fans back in Perth.”

Neale is understood to be spending multiple weeks in WA across the off-season, including attending Andrew Brayshaw’s wedding in the Swan Valley in November.

The duo lived together and played alongside one another in 2018 - Brayshaw’s first year in the AFL and Neale’s last at Freo before moving to the Lions.