VICE-CAPTAIN Tom Rockliff says the Brisbane Lions might need to start playing for free kicks.

The Lions lost the free kick count 22-11 in the nine-point defeat to Port Adelaide on Sunday to continue a horrible trend in 2013.

It was the seventh straight match they had lost the count, and 12th of 17 in total.

The Lions have also conceded the most free kicks in the League at 20.9 a match.

It is the second time in three weeks they have raised the issue, after coach Michael Voss met with umpire's boss Jeff Gieschen following the round 15 win over Gold Coast.

Rockliff said he was puzzled by a number of decisions on Sunday.

He admitted the Lions were "reckless" and needed to address their technique, but believed there was inconsistency with interpretations.

"The ones where they're on the deck and you fall into the back, it can be hard at times. There's a new technique to it," Rockliff said.

"You've always been told to lock the ball in but it's difficult.

"Players are smart and they know how to play and react for free kicks. You flick your head back or you lunge forward, you're going to draw the attention of the umpires.

"You've just got to be really careful. Maybe we can get better at doing that ourselves and learn a few tricks how to dive and throw the head back at times."

Rockliff was pinged for three free kicks, including a contentious high tackle decision against Kane Mitchell.

The Lions were also confused over a final quarter ruling that called for full-back Daniel Merrett to play on after he marked near his defensive goalsquare.

They believed Angus Monfries was within the restricted five-metre area and impeded Merrett's decision-making. A turnover resulted in the only goal of the final term and iced the game for the home team.

Rockliff said the Lions would not lose their endeavour despite falling out of the finals race.

"The ones that are tight that get away are the most disappointing," he said.

"We've got five weeks left in the year and we think we've built something pretty impressive after the bye. We've got another good opportunity this week against St Kilda.

"You go out there every week to win and it's more about pride now. We're going out there to play our best footy."

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