Our first round of NAB Challenge was up against local opponents, the Gold Coast SUNS, at Burpengary and provided the perfect opportunity for our young and new Lions to show us what they've got. We take a look at those who caught our eye below:

Rhys Mathieson

After a surprise pick at no. 39, Rhys Mathieson showed why he was such a steal on Sunday, recording 13 possessions (seven contested) and a superb banana goal from the forward pocket. With a fearless attack, he was hungry for the ball and won six free kicks. Senior Coach Justin Leppitsch was impressed with Mathieson’s efforts, even making comment that Mathieson will be pushing for early selection during his post-game press conference. 

Ben Keays

Hyundai Help for Kids Lions Academy product Ben Keays was a standout providing a solid performance throughout the entire game. The 18-year-old took five marks with two inside-50’s and one behind.

Match Highlights: Lions V Suns

Josh Walker

Ex-Cat Josh Walker showed promise as a good key forward option as he took some good strong grabs. He attacked the contest and will provide opportunities for our small forwards. Walker recorded his first goal as a Lion from a strong contested mark on the back of the Lions’ first inside-50 of the fourth quarter. 

Tom Bell

Off-season recruit Tom Bell has had an exciting pre-season and the hard work came to fruition on Sunday. Bell spent his time between midfield and half-forward and finished with 19 disposals, giving fans some excitement leading into the season.

Josh Scahche

Our top draft pick, Joshua Schache (No. 2), was rested after half time but contested well in the air early on, taking four marks. Windy conditions hampered Schache’s set shot attempt in the second quarter. Although Schache was eager to get out again, Senior Coach Justin Leppitsch said, “we’ve got to be very careful of their loads in their first season."

Ryan Harwood

Seasoned defender Ryan Harwood was solid down back for the Lions recording 5 tackles alongside 5 marks. The Lions backline was missing the bigger-bodied Dan Merrett and Harris Andrews yet, with 59 games to his name, Ryan Harwood provided a mature presence. 

Ryan Lester

Team player Ryan Lester eased the midfield run at times, linking up with the group to run a chain of hand balls through the middle. As one of the Lions more senior players in the midfield, Lester alongside Mitch Robinson, provided guidance and a steady hand for the younger group in and around the contest.