The Brisbane Lions NEAFL side have had a formidable start to the season, after defeating the Aspley Hornets at a wet Voxson Oval by 48 points to claim their third straight victory last weekend.

NEAFL Midfield and Development Coach, Zane Littlejohn says coaching staff have been impressed with the players’ versatility as they adapted well to the conditions and the pressure.

“We came away on the day with plus 43 contested footy which is a great outcome,” Littlejohn told lions.com.au.

“The key elements of the game; contested footy clearance, tackle pressure was really pleasing.”

Unlike previous weeks, traditionally scoring from turnover, the boys took a different approach, with 13 goals scored from stoppages.

“It’s a great result to win a different way,” he said.

“It’s good to now know that as a group we can win in how we need to adapt to a game.”

With plenty of talent packed into the 22-man team, many young guns are knocking on the door of AFL selection. 

Young key forward Toby Wooller shone through the wet conditions, winning 23 disposals, seven marks, six tackles and kicking four goals, while former basketballer Tom Fullarton demonstrated his impressive groundball skills amongst his four goals.

“Tommy Fullarton kicked four, from upfront again, he is just getting better each week,” Littlejohn said.

“He is slowly learning his time as a forward… he has also spent a bit of time in the ruck as well.” 

Littlejohn said the coaching staff are confident the side can rise to the challenge of a tough battle against Gold Coast on Saturday morning.

“We know they are extremely competitive around the contested footy and pressure as well, so we are going to have to be on top of our game and back it up,” he said.