Lapses in concentration were costly for the Brisbane Lions in the 2018 AFL season, according to Midfield Coach Dale Tapping.

In Sunday’s Round 23 loss to the Eagles, the opposition kicked five unanswered goals in the second term.

“We’ve just got to maintain concentration, particularly against the better teams,” Tapping said.

“Key moments in the game. I think the second quarter there, they just got away from us.”

But Tapping and the coaching staff were pleased by the team’s response after the break.

“We fought it out really well and that’s been a really strong character trait for us this year.”

Tapping said his young midfielders including Hugh McCluggage, Jarrod Berry and Zac Bailey, will be better for the experience of taking on the League’s most experienced each week.

McCluggage started his 2018 campaign by putting on an additional six kilograms in the pre-season and played all 22 games for the Lions.

“His tackle count has doubled in the last year,” Tapping said.

“His inside game has really come on this year.”

His best mate Jarrod Berry also stepped up this season, regularly assigned a tagging role each week.

“He should take great confidence out of that.”

Tapping said Bailey’s performance against West Coast, his second game since being recalled to the senior side, was his best in Lions colours.

His ability to go from congestion to space should excite Lions supporters next year.