FORMER Demon Brent Moloney looks set to add midfield steel to the Brisbane Lions after impressing in his first game for his new club in Saturday night's NAB Cup win over Hawthorn.

Moloney looked noticeably thinner than he did last season as he racked up 11 possessions as the Lions won a grinding encounter against the Hawks in slippery conditions at Metricon Stadium, 0.4.8 (32) to 0.1.5 (11).

Moloney had a dramatic fall from favour at Melbourne under new coach Mark Neeld last season and elected to cross to the Lions in last year's free agency period.

Moloney was ably supported through the midfield by Daniel Rich, Josh Green and Tom Rockliff.

Former Bulldog Brian Lake has been touted as the key recruit for Hawthorn's defence this season, but Jarryd Roughead showed against the Lions he could also bolster the Hawks' backline.

Roughead was moved from his customary forward/ruck role against the Lions, and impressed at centre half-back with his strength in marking contests and poise at ground level.

Ruckman David Hale was sporting a new streamlined look, having dispensed of the hair transplant he has worn for several years.

Hale was denied a dribbled goal late in the first half when a video review showed that the ball had touched the post, although Lions defender James Polkinghorne also soccered the ball through before it crossed the goal line.

Former Geelong rookie Jonathan Simpkin was one of the Hawks' most impressive players and the best of their recruits.

The Hawks led by nine points at half-time, but the Lions controlled play in the second half, kicking all four of their goals and holding the Hawks goalless.

Lance Franklin again failed to kick a goal after struggling for touch in the Hawks' earlier loss to Gold Coast.

BRISBANE LIONS   0.0.3    0.4.8 (32)                 
HAWTHORN             0.1.3    0.1.5 (11)

SUPERGOALS
Brisbane Lions: -
Hawthorn: -

GOALS
Brisbane Lions: Zorko 2, Lisle, Banfield
Hawthorn: Breust

BEST
Brisbane Lions: Moloney, Zorko, Rich, Green
Hawthorn: Simpkin, Roughead, Gibson, Guerra

INJURIES
Brisbane Lions: TBC
Hawthorn: TBC

Reports: Nil