The Brisbane Lions Reserves’ back-to-back NEAFL premiership celebrations have been temporarily shelved as the team prepares for another title decider against a new challenger this Saturday afternoon.

Just six days after their 46-point Grand Final triumph over Aspley, the Lions will host the Sydney Swans Reserves in a battle of ‘East versus North’ for the NEAFL Cross-Conference Championship.

The match will be held at Aspley (Graham Road) this Saturday 21 September starting from 12:30pm.

Coach Leigh Harding said he has afforded his players a lighter training load this week to keep them ‘mentally fresh’.

“It’s been an interesting week, having to back up again six days after the Aspley game. It has certainly come around pretty quickly,” Harding told lions.com.au.

“The boys had a day off on Monday, but came back on Tuesday for a light run. Even the main skills session on Wednesday was very light.

“They haven’t really spent a great deal of time at the Club this week, but they’re still eager to get out there and play on Saturday.”

Even though the majority of Club’s players are currently on holidays, Harding said more than a dozen listed players remain committed to lining up for a shot at another premiership this Saturday.

That includes some players who were advised earlier this week that their contracts would not be renewed beyond this season.

“Those guys were given the option, and were happy to go around one more time, which is a massive credit to their character” Harding said.

“I guess it’s another chance for them to put their best foot forward. Plus they’ve played a lot of games with the boys and really want to see the season out.”

Harding also said that Lions Academy members Cain Tickner, Isaac Conway and Sam Gribble were also chances of being recalled to the team.