Six on the trot for Lions

THE red-hot Brisbane Lions have extended their AFL winning streak to six matches, putting a serious dent in Hawthorn’s flickering finals hopes with a 27-point victory in Launceston.

The Lions kicked seven of the final nine goals of yesterday’s match to win 13.9 (87) to 7.18 (60).

Having not played finals since 2009, a resurgent Brisbane will finish Round 19 entrenched in the top two on the ladder and with the advantage of having three of their remaining four home-and-away matches at the Gabba.

Rugged winger Mitch Robinson and ball magnet Lachie Neale were among the best players for the Lions.

Brisbane have won their past four matches on the trot against the Hawks, including two triumphs at the University of Tasmania Stadium.

The Hawks dominated general play in the opening term but inaccuracy in front of goal meant they led by only three points at quarter-time. Promising young forward Mitchell Lewis was the main culprit as he missed two easy set shots.

The second quarter was a low-scoring affair, with Brisbane skipper Dayne Zorko slotting a clever goal 11 seconds before the halftime siren to put the visitors ahead for the first time.

Kicking into the wind, the Lions broke the match open with four unanswered goals late in the third quarter to lead by 22 points at the final break.

They went on with the job in the final quarter, extending the margin to 27 points.