The Lions NEAFL Coaches say the high standards they are driving with their emerging group has translated into two convincing victories in the opening rounds.

After thrashing NT Thunder in Darwin in Round 1, the team showed no signs of jetlag when they defeated GWS Giants by 95 points at Burpengary on Saturday.

Development Coach Paul Henriksen said the team’s contest work was outstanding, as well as their attitude.

“You can play NEAFL and be happy with that but you need to play the footy that the AFL guys want and AFL coaches want to see,” he told lions.com.au.

“The ability to actually play at AFL standard, that’s what we always drive with our NEAFL guys.

“Make sure you are playing at an AFL standard, that’s the vital goal for every game we go into.”

Corey Lyons and Toby Wooller both stepped up with more than 30 disposals for the afternoon.

Ben Keays had a career best six goals, with three kicked in the first quarter.

Jack Payne made his return in the backline after 12 months on the sideline with a shin injury. He played one half.

“The big guy made a great return and I think people forget that he was a premiership player for us in the NEAFL in 2017 and he played the first JLT game against Sydney and played some time on Buddy Franklin,” Henriksen said.

“He was really good and he was just wrapped to get through a half of footy.”

Irish speedster James Madden also made his official NEAFL debut, after missing Round 1 due to illness.

“Jimmy was really keen,” he said.

“He’s such a professional for such a player that’s green to our game.

“He’s really making inroads with his run and carry with his kicking and we are really excited about what he can bring to our Club.”

On Good Friday the Lions will meet Aspley for the first time since the Hornets defeated them in last year’s preliminary final.

 “They always lift for us and it will be a really good contest on Good Friday.”