Brisbane Lions Development Coach Paul Henriksen has expressed his admiration for the hard work that the Lions players have endured to secure their third straight win of the 2017 NEAFL season against the Southport Sharks at South Pine Sports Complex last Saturday.
“For us to have a 3-0 start to the season it shows that the players are getting rewards for all the hard work they’ve put in throughout the pre-season,” said Henriksen.
“It’s an exciting time for the club.”
The Lions remained undefeated following last Saturday’s game with the 59-point victory consolidating the team’s recent form.
The Sharks were gallant throughout the first three quarters of the game, remaining toe-to-toe with the Lions throughout the second term.
But the Lions converted numerous opportunities in the last term kicking 5.9, taking full advantage to win 14.19 (103) 6.8 (44).
“That last quarter was quite pleasing especially after that arm wrestle against Southport,” said Henriksen.
“Our players had to fight through it and gain access to get those scores on the board late in the game.”
Henriksen has been impressed with the fluent transition that the young players have made at training and into the 2017 season.
“What has been most impressive so far is the way the players have been brought into our program,” said Henriksen.
“We’re all for one and that means that the players are working hard towards trying to get into the senior group.”
The Lions will take on Gold Coast SUNS at Metricon Stadium on Saturday. The Suns defeated the Lions by 37-points in the final pre-season match before the first round of the 2017 NEAFL season.
“I think it’s going to be a really tough contest,” said Henriksen.
“Part of our growth will involve the challenge of taking on an opponent on their home ground.”
“I know the boys are really looking forward to heading down the coast to take on Gold Coast SUNS.”
Bounce is at 12:55pm on Saturday 22 April at Metricon Stadium, Gold Coast.
