Development Coach Zane Littlejohn said expectations will continue to rise despite the Brisbane Lions NEAFL side’s undefeated start to the 2017 season.

Brisbane claimed a 45-point win over the Gold Coast SUNS on Saturday, making it four in a row for the unbeaten Lions.

“We had our whole group contributing which was really pleasing,” said Littlejohn.

“It’s really exciting to win our first four. We didn’t set any targets within that first four weeks in regards to our win-loss ratio.

“Our expectations continue to rise as a group now and as a football club we expect our NEAFL to perform well each week.”

Cian Hanley made his official NEAFL debut against the Gold Coast SUNS on Saturday after battling injury.

The 21-year-old has dealt with an ACL injury and then groin problems since being drafted to the Lions as an international rookie at the end of 2014.

Hanley played one match in the pre-season competition before returning to Ireland to be with family following the passing of his little brother Tommy, who lost his battle with cancer.

“What a great story for his family, what a great story for our football club and what a great story for Cian,” said Littlejohn.

“He’s worked so hard to make sure he is ready to play football and try to play at the highest level he can. For him to run out after two years, after not playing any footy, in only his second ever game of AFL football (was good to see).

“He performed really well and I think it’s full credit to the work that he’s done. They’re the little wins that you want to take whether you win or lose a game.

“To see him in the middle of the circle when we’re singing the song was a great result for us.”