Brilliant Lions claim NAB Cup title

Victorious ... Lions captain Jonathan Brown celebrates a goal. Source: Andrew Tauber / News Limited

Brisbane Lions claim their first title since 2003 with a comprehensive 41-point win over Carlton in the NAB Cup grand final.

The Lions lead early before Carlton took over in the middle stages of the match but the only undefeated team in the pre-season were determined to stay that way, prevailing 0.16.13 (109) to 2.7.8 (68).

Midfielder Daniel Rich claimed the Michael Tuck Medal for best on ground with 23 touches and a goal.

It was fitting reward for the Lions, who had been forced to travel for much of the NAB Cup and were controversially robbed of a home final because the Gabba was unavailable.

The Michael Voss-coached team stormed out to an early lead thanks to a five-goal first quarter but were quickly pegged back by Carlton.

The Blues took the momentum in the second quarter, kicking five majors - including a super goal - to take a 13-point margin into the main break.

The tide swung again in the third term as the Lions re-emerged after the break with another five goal burst.

Led by inspirational co-captain Jonathan Brown (five goals), the Lions held on in the final term to claim the pre-season premiership and enter the season full of confidence.

More to come ...

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