Backline Coach Murray Davis said he is thrilled by Josh Walker’s performances in recent weeks after he was moved from the forward line to defence.

Walker was moved to the Lions’ last line of defence in Round 14 against the Giants, after Harris Andrews was taken off due to a severe concussion.

He’s remained there for the past three weeks and has started to play some of his best football.

“What I’ve really liked about Josh’s game is the way he approaches it and the way he works with the other defenders. We’re just seeing him grow in confidence,” Davis told lions.com.au.

Walker’s attack on the ball has pleased coaching staff and fellow players.

“He’s got sticky hands at the moment so hopefully that continues,” Davis said.

Luke Hodge was a late withdrawal in the Lions win over the Hawks, with Cedric Cox stepping up to take his place.

“It was good for Cedric to get an opportunity."

“He met the challenge head-on and he built his game and that’s what we liked about it."

Hawthorn had more inside the 50s, but the Lions managed to restrict them to under 70 points, which is the third week in a row this has happened. 

“I think it was our effort and our fight to win, fight to the death stuff which we often talk about.”

On Saturday the Lions host the Adelaide Crows at the Gabba with bounce at 7.25pm.