The Brisbane Lions have made some bold decisions at the selection table ahead of their Round 4 clash against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium, opting to play two first-gamers – Sam Docherty and Marco Paparone.

While it’s generally quite uncommon for an established side to blood two debutants in the one match, Assistant Coach Adrian Fletcher told lions.com.au that Docherty and Paparone simply could longer be overlooked.

“One of our key selection philosophies is to give in-form players opportunities,” Fletcher said.

“Sam and Marco have both been in terrific form, so we’re prepared to play them. It doesn’t matter when you came into the system.”

Fletcher said everyone at the Club had been pleasantly surprised by Paparone’s sooner-than-expected senior call-up.

“There’s a bit of Darryl White about Marco – it’s those go-go Gadget arms,” Fletcher said. 

“He’s one of our best runners, has a nice kick, and knows where the goals are. He obviously still needs to work on certain parts of his game, but we feel his strengths will benefit the team.”

Ryan Harwood has also been named for his first senior game for 2013.

“Ryan has been playing well across half-back for the Lions Reserves, and has shown good closing speed,” Fletcher said.

“North Melbourne presents a good challenge for our defenders. They have quality smalls and talls, so we will need to defend well as a team.”

Docherty, Paparone and Harwood come into the side at the expense of Jared Polec (ankle), James Polkinghorne and Elliot Yeo (both omitted).

Fletcher said with such a wealth of talent available for selection, that some tough decisions had to be made.

“There are 34-35 guys that we can genuinely choose from each week – everybody knows that now,” Fletcher said.

“The Club’s at a stage now where you really have to earn each senior game.”

“We don’t see it as a negative – we see it as a positive, because it drives everyone to be at their absolute best. And that’s what makes great clubs.”