In a dramatic conclusion to the AFL grand final, the Brisbane Lions secured an improbable victory against the Fremantle Dockers. With less than four minutes remaining in the match, the Dockers held a 17-point lead, a moment marked by the playing of 'Wharfie Time'—a celebratory signal intended to herald a Fremantle premiership. However, the momentum shifted immediately following this display, as the Lions scored four unanswered goals to claim the win.

Brisbane midfielder Josh Dunkley stated that the Lions were mentally prepared for high-pressure scenarios. According to Dunkley, the sight of the 'purple wave'—a reference to Fremantle’s supporters and branding—appearing on the MCG big screen served as a psychological catalyst rather than a deterrent. He noted that the team used the atmosphere to steel themselves for the final minutes of play. While the event is being framed by some as a tactical or psychological turning point, the core of the result remains the Lions' ability to execute under pressure during the closing stages of the game. The match is now being cited as one of the most memorable grand finals in recent history due to the sudden reversal of fortune in the final minutes.