The Brisbane Lions VFL suffered a 36-point loss to the Southport Sharks at Austworld Centre Oval on Saturday.

Despite putting together a strong opening quarter to head into the first break in front, the Lions were overpowered by strong Sharks outfit to be handed their first loss in five weeks.

Rhys Mathieson continued his streak of 30+ disposals for the Lions, gathering 37 touches, eight clearances, seven inside 50s and five marks in a mammoth effort for the Lions.

Big-bodied midfielder Ely Smith was prolific across the midfield to collect 23 touches, five tackles, five clearances, one goal and one behind in the loss.

Emerging ruckman Kalin Lane also showed plenty of positive signs with another strong performance, putting up 18 hitouts and five clearances.

Tom Berry and Tom Fullarton were crucial in the Lions’ keeping up with a dominant Southport, collecting 20 and 17 disposals respectively.

While Blake Coleman continued to put damage on the scoreboard for the Lions, kicking two goals for the third consecutive week.

Reflecting on the loss, VFL Head Coach Mitch Hahn said he was proud of the way his team fought back.

"We kept fighting it out, at one stage they kicked 9 goals and blew out to a 49-point lead and we edged it back," he said.

"We controlled the blow out and the week before with a heavy track, our energy probably wasn't where it needed to be.

"It's certainly one of the challenges for our group, continuing to bring energy each week.

"We've reviewed the game and our focus is now on this Friday's game against the Bullants which is a great opportunity for our AFL boys and staff to come and watch us play. It's really exciting for our guys to be able to play in front of the entire club."

The Brisbane Lions will take on the Northern Bullants this Friday at Moreton Bay Sports Complex at 3:35pm. 

Best: Mathieson, E. Smith, T. Berry, Michael, Wilmot, Lester
Goals: Coleman x2, Abberley, Barry, Berry, Cockatoo, Fletcher, E. Smith, H. Smith, Tunstill