Andrew Raines believes the Lions should have little trouble adapting to the conditions at TIO Stadium on Saturday night considering the climate in Queensland is relatively similar.
The Lions players will wear sweat-bands to try and combat the humidity during the match, while their core temperature will be monitored closely during the breaks.
But Raines believes his side should be well prepared for the challenge that confronts them.
“Obviously going up there is going to be a bit different for us, but we are used to the climate here in Queensland,” Raines told media at Brisbane Airport on Friday morning.
“At night there is a fair bit of humidity and grease on the ball, but we play like that most Saturday nights at the Gabba. Hopefully that gets us going for this weekend’s game.”
Raines was part of the Lions side that faced Adelaide in Darwin during the 2012 NAB Cup, and embraces the opportunity to play in different environments.
“The great thing about our game is playing in different states and playing Australia-wide. It should be exciting for the boys,” he said.
Raines will form part of a Lions midfield that will be without key playmakers Simon Black and Brent Moloney against the Demons.
Bu the 27-year-old said Black and Moloney’s absence presented yet another opportunity for his younger teammates to step-up as they did against North Melbourne last week.
“We know Blacky is not going to be around forever, (but) there has been some great talent coming through the midfield. We're trying to building on that,” Raines said.
“Obviously Simon's a great player to have (in the midfield) along with Brent who's been a great pick up this year.
“Missing those two puts a bit of pressure on the younger boys to step up, and I think they will do just that.”
Raines forecast
Andrew Raines is confident the Lions can adapt to the conditions in Darwin