Lions on the brink with Eric Hipwood and Lachie Neale set to miss rest of premiership defence

The banged-up Brisbane Lions will be without important forward Eric Hipwood, and likely star midfielder Lachie Neale, for the rest of their premiership defence.

Dual Brownlow medallist Neale injured his right calf in the 16.16 (112) to 11.8 (74) qualifying final defeat to Geelong at the MCG on…