Lion cubs impress Chris Fagan despite loss to Tigers

Surely, Lions lightning couldn't strike twice.

A fortnight after Brisbane's stunning AFL win over Essendon, they were back at Etihad Stadium and gamely taking it up to another vulnerable opponent.

Richmond, so poor the week before against St Kilda, only led the bottom side by 23 points at three-quarter time despite a red-hot Dustin Martin.

And while the Tigers quickly opened the final term with two goals, each time Brisbane were able to reply.

But sheer weight of numbers meant there would be no miracle this time.

Martin's booming goal from outside 50m and a brilliant snap from Daniel Rioli quelled the threat, with the Tigers scoring a regulation 31-point win.

Richmond ended the game with huge advantages in centre clearances - 20-4 - and inside 50s (67-39).

Their experienced midfielders struggled and, as Lions coach Chris Fagan pointed out, the game was therefore played in Richmond's half.

Dayne Zorko shone against Essendon with 30 possessions - Dion Prestia restricted him to just 11.

"Our midfield group ... over the course of the season, they've been fantastic for us," Fagan said.

"But they had quieter games today and the Richmond mids were up and about, no doubt.

"The encouraging thing for us though was to still be in the game, with all the young players playing so well.

"(It was) a negative in one way, but a positive in another."

Young key defender Harris Andrews led the way, taking 10 marks in an absorbing duel with Jack Riewoldt.

While the Tigers star kicked four goals, Andrews earned praise from Richmond coach Damien Hardwick as well as Fagan.

"He's a great young player," Fagan said.

"We ask a lot of him - he's a 20-year-old - and his game today was terrific."

Daniel McStay was also strong in defence, while newcomers Alex Witherden and Cedric Cox have ample potential.

Josh Schache pleased Fagan in his senior return, kicking two goals despite the Lions forwards having so few opportunities.