Just three weeks ago, the Brisbane Lions Reserves were beaten comfortably by fellow Queensland NEAFL competitors Redland in a practice match at Casheezi Park.

But after a breakthrough NEAFL win over the Gold Coast last Saturday at Metricon Stadium, the Lions will be hoping to carry the momentum into their return bout against the Bombers.

“We got a bit of a touch-up in practice match against Redland a couple of weeks ago, but our team has changed a bit since then,” Development Coach Mitch Hahn told lions.com.au.

“I remember the last time we played them it was in hot conditions, and they were harder than us. So a focus for our group will be our ability to run out the game.

“But it will be a challenge considering we’re relatively young and Redland have more mature bodies.

“What’s important is that we carry on the momentum from last week and show some more improvement.”

The Lions’ cause hasn’t been helped by a growing injury list at the Club, which means considerably less listed players will be available to represent the Reserves.

They have already lost five of their top performers from last week’s win over the Suns, with Nick Robertson, Tom Cutler, Jackson Paine, Rohan Bewick and Ryan Harwood all recalled to the senior team.

But Hahn says those players’ absence opens the door for some top-ups to get a taste of NEAFL action.

“The exciting thing is that more of our younger players get an opportunity at senior level – and that’s the best thing for their development,” he said.

“It also gives some of the local kids the chance to have a crack at playing with the Lions Reserves at NEAFL level, which is a huge thrill for them.

“The top-up kids we’ve had – guys like James Rayner and Cam Stevenson – have done a terrific job. Scott Borlace and his team are doing a great job with the Academy, and they’re proving to be valuable contributors.

“So there will be some new guys that come in, and we’ll look after them. And the guys that get a chance at AFL level, we wish them all the best.

“The exciting challenge for us is that our group will change week-in, week-out.”

The Lions Reserves will face Redland at Casheezi Park on Saturday 12 April from 1:30pm.