ALL the talk in Brisbane this week ahead of Sunday's crucial clash with Port Adelaide has been about the Lions fixing their terrible first quarters.

Statistically, they are the worst in the AFL, having won just three of 16 opening terms this year.

When they play interstate, as they will on Sunday, the trend is even worse, winning just one in seven.

Not only have the Lions lost most opening terms, they've conceded an average head-start of 20 points.

Coach Michael Voss raised the issue earlier in the week, saying they had been aware of the issue for 10 weeks and been unable to find a solution.

And on Thursday, it was defender Matt Maguire's turn to highlight the problem.

"I think if we can start well it really sets up our game," Maguire said.

"We've shown that if we're in the game at three-quarter time, we've got the endurance and the will to win and are able to come over the top of sides.

"It's about us starting well, grinding out second and third quarters and then finishing off the game well."

Maguire will play his 150th career game on Sunday, and said he was impressed with eighth-placed Port's resurgence this season.

"What they've been able to do this year has been great for their club," he said.

"Hopefully we can crack in harder. We want to win the contested ball … if they beat us with the way they play, then so be it.

"It's going to be a big challenge this weekend and we look forward to it."

The Lions have a number of players in doubt for the match, but Brent Moloney (calf) and Mitch Golby (quad) appear certain to play, while captain Jonathan Brown will be assessed following Thursday's main training session.

Simon Black's groin injury has lingered longer than expected and a time-frame on his return is still to be determined.

Michael Whiting is a reporter for AFL Media. You can follow him on Twitter: @AFL_mikewhiting