Brisbane’s season still has a pulse after a 43-point win over the Western Bulldogs on Friday night.

Brisbane’s season still has a pulse after a 43-point win over the Western Bulldogs on Friday night.

A refreshed Eric Hipwood made a statement with an equal career-high six goals as his Lions cruised to the 17.12 (114) to 10.11 (71) win under the Marvel Stadium roof.

Lachie Neale was allowed plenty of time and space to direct his team, moving freely to gather 38 disposals, 10 clearances and two goals. In return, the Lions refused to allow the Bulldogs any such freedom with the ball.

The impact of Josh Dunkley (24 disposals, one goal) and Jarrod Berry (23 disposals, one goal) through the middle was equally important, the latter tasked with nullifying Marcus Bontempelli for the duration.

After an inspirational best on ground performance from Bontempelli last week, he was well held to 19 disposals, yet still broke through for three goals in his tireless attempts to lift his side.

Brisbane’s strength around the contest was evident from the off, leading the clearance count 30-13 at the half to put the home side on the back foot at the source, eventually winning the metric 50-32.

The visitors made end-to-end transition a real feature of the game, often propelled by Hugh McCluggage (24 disposals, six clearances) and Darcy Wilmot (23 disposals, 461 metres gained) out of the back half, and utilising the space created by the forward line.

Without Aaron Naughton (knee) and Sam Darcy (suspension), Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (two goals) became the Bulldogs’ main target in attack. He moved well early and proved why comparisons have been made between him and Lance Franklin, but he had to fight hard all night.

Ugle-Hagan was supported by emerging key defender James O’Donnell, who spent the night in attack attempting to limit Harris Andrews, while kicking two goals of his own.

Tom Liberatore’s return from concussion saw him pick up where he left off, throwing his weight around at the contest he was industrious in his attempts to set up teammates. He was the Dogs’ strongest midfield presence with 23 disposals and seven clearances.

The Lions’ forward unit made a concerted effort to apply pressure, often sprinting out of the attacking 50 at the restart to offer support to the midfield group. Although Charlie Cameron struggled to get his hands on the footy, he never stopped working defensively, while Kai Lohmann and Logan Morris were always on the move.