Brisbane Lions Backline Coach Murray Davis concedes the side’s first quarters do need to improve, but the team still showed courage in their loss to North Melbourne on Sunday afternoon.

Davis says that poor composure results in the Lions’ slow start.

“We’ve spoken a lot about it and we’re certainly working through ways in which we can combat that,” Davis said.

The Lions were reduced to one man on the bench after Charlie Cameron, Hugh McCluggage and Allen Christensen succumbed to injuries.

Despite having less men, the Lions went on to win the second half by one point, with Dayne Beams kicking five goals.

“They should take a lot out of it because it showed a lot of character and heart,” Davis said.

“They should take a lot of belief out of that.

“We had to adapt and play in different roles and different positions. And we felt the players really took that on.”

Ahead of the Essendon clash this Sunday, Davis said the team need to have the same attitude right from the beginning.

“It’s about being able to do it for longer and right from the outset,” Davis said.

The Coach is confident that the home crowd will be treated to the Lions best footy against the Bombers.

“The boys love playing here at the Gabba so hopefully everyone who gets along gets a good visual of what we’re like when we’re at our best.