A tough and taxing trip to Perth last weekend could see the Brisbane Lions Match Committee ring in some changes ahead of this Saturday’s Round 15 match against North Melbourne at the Gabba.

The Lions will be looking to inject more scoring power, after being held to just three goals against the Dockers – the Club’s lowest return since the 1997 merger.

However, with a record-low 17 inside 50s, the forwards weren’t given many opportunities to impact the scoreboard.

With the reality of Jonathan Brown’s retirement announcement still sinking in, the forward set-up will be of most interest as it should provide a brief glimpse into the future.

Daniel Merrett seems the man most likely to shoulder those key forward responsibilities in Brown’s absence, which could spell the end of his days as a defender, with Michael Close likely filling that second tall marking position ahead of Jackson Paine, Jordan Lisle, and the untried Jonathan Freeman.

After getting through two games in the NEAFL upon his return from a calf injury, Ash McGrath will come into the frame as another small forward option, who also presents a good leading target.

The Lions’ inability to match the bigger-bodied Fremantle midfield last week might also open the door for more experienced players such as Brent Moloney, Andrew Raines, Ryan Lester and Mitch Golby to make a senior return, while first-year sensation James Aish should also be fresh after being afforded a rest last week.  

The Lions’ full Roun 15 team will be revealed on lions.com.au at 6:25pm this evening.