Port's Rockliff eyes Brisbane AFL reunion
Port Adelaide's Tom Rockliff says the banter has started with his former Brisbane teammates ahead of his AFL return to the Gabba.
And he's even urging Brisbane fans to turn up in droves to jeer him.
But Rockliff, in his second season with Port, insists there's no lingering ill feeling with the Lions.
"I don't think we left on bitter terms or anything like that," Rockliff told reporters in Adelaide on Tuesday.
"Both parties were happy with the way it panned out in the end.
"I wish the Lions nothing but the best - but obviously not this weekend."
Rockliff said he would always fondly remember his time at Brisbane, who he captained for two seasons, played 154 games, and won two club champion awards.
"There's special memories up there, you spend nine, 10 years of your life up there - it's something I will never forget," he said.
"They obviously gave me an opportunity as an 18-year-old so it will be pretty special to go back.
"But wearing Port Adelaide colours, no doubt we'll be up against it.
"They should have a good crowd, hopefully Brisbane fans turn up in numbers."
Rockliff was rapt that Brisbane, in second spot with consecutive wins to open their season, appeared to be out of the doldrums.
"It's outstanding to see them win, (coach) Chris Fagan has got them going pretty well, David Noble off-field has done an outstanding job," he said.
"And it's good for the AFL competition and the growth of the game as well that Queensland footy is doing well."
Rockliff has returned to his brilliant best after his first season with Port was curtailed by injury issues.
He has amassed 44 and 37 disposals against Melbourne and Carlton respectively, earning the attention of Lion Mitch Robinson, who playfully dangled the carrot in front of his ex- teammate.
The Brisbane midfielder pre-empted journalists' questions on Tuesday, hinting that a tagging role might be in store after Rockliff's strong start to the season.
"I'll probably get asked a question about Rocky," Robinson grinned.
"If he pops up then maybe I might tag him, maybe I might not so, that'll be your headline right there."
