The signs are worrying for Gold Coast after Brisbane exposed their lack of experience, forwards and depth in the midfield to win by 11 goals at Southport on Sunday.

In many ways, the Suns' 17.19 (121) 7.12 (54) loss to the Lions had all the hallmarks of their 2010 VFL form where they were competitive early before seriously fading away.

The Suns led the Lions 3.2 (20) to 1.0 (6) in the opening term before the game completely turned around after the first change with Brisbane going on a seven goal run.

Suns' coach Guy McKenna said fatigue became a factor with several players cramping late in the match and they were outclassed in the midfield when Michael Rischitellli and Daniel Harris (ribs) were on the bench.

"We are going to experience, I wouldn't say most of the season because we have to iron it out, that (being beaten in the midfield)," McKenna said.

"In the second quarter when they piled on the goals when we couldn't get near it.

"It's more about our stoppage and clearance set ups, if we get that right ... that's a big part of our game."

Code-hopper Karmichael Hunt again showed enough to be worthy of first round selection although it must be said that he has little pressure being applied to his selection.

The Suns struggled to find anyone who won their position and the appearance of gun recruit Gary Ablett can not come quick enough.

Ablett, defenders Nathan Bock and Campbell Brown and utility Jared Brennan were the notable Suns players missing.

No.1 National draft pick David Swallow started brilliantly for the Suns until he was blanketed by Andrew Raines and forward Brandon Matera showed promise in the midfield in the second half after looking dangerous in attack.

Young centre half forward Charlie Dixon kicked two goals, the second from a huge grab in the goal square, but otherwise, as you would expect of someone who has yet to play a senior match, his game form was patchy.

"He's an imposing young fella and he still has a lot to learn about the game, but he when he imposes himself on the game, like he did in patches, he's frightening, like his mark in the last quarter."

Brisbane coach Michael Voss was encouraged with the efforts of Jesse O'Brien, Ryan Lester, Rohan Bewick and Irish import Pearce Handley.

However, he was slightly disappointed the match became a stroll after half time given it was their last practice match before they meet Fremantle at the Gabba in round one on March 26.

"I think you would like it to be a closer match in the final hit out," Voss said.

"They're style is a little different to what we have played against so far.

"I thought we could have scored a lot more than what we did today. We had a lot of opportunities."

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