The simple explanation is Brisbane is a one-man team. But, surely one player, even if that player is Michael Voss, can't mean that much to a team. This year, though, Brisbane was seen to adopt a more urgent, mature attitude. Winning, after all, is a healthy habit.
Finals are the ideal occasions to hone skills under pressure and earn respect.
A trophy, even if it is ''only'' an Ansett Cup, is symbolic. A sign of success. Particularly in Brisbane, where the contents of the trophy cabinet could fit in a shirt pocket. Complacency at Essendon, at North Melbourne, is one thing. It is something else entirely for Brisbane.