Brisbane skipper Jonathan Brown says the Lions need to finish a bleak AFL season well to give them a springboard into an improved 2012.

One obvious target is avoiding the wooden spoon, while another is to grasp something tangible in the second half of the year, starting against Richmond at the Gabba on Saturday.

Brown, who only returned from a serious facial injury a month ago, said he had been as frustrated on the field as he was sitting on the sideline for two months.

"It's been nothing special (my form), but it's been solid enough without setting the world on fire, that's for sure," Brown said on Wednesday.

"I wouldn't mind a few more opportunities but we will work on that."

After 11 matches, the Lions are sitting 15th by virtue of a superior percentage over Port Adelaide and Gold Coast who have all won two matches.

With September action ruled out and only pride to play for, Brown has cast his gaze ahead towards next year.

"Clearly we are not going to play finals so we are not working on that," Brown said.

"We have to have the big picture in mind having a good season next year.

"We have to finish with wins and playing a more complete brand of footy.

"I'm not sure it's a goal (avoiding the wooden spoon), it probably goes without saying."

The Lions' fight for respect and their coach Michael Voss' fight for survival will be tested against Richmond at the Gabba on Saturday night.

At their best, both sides are of similar ability, but the Tigers have a seemingly brighter future.

They are 11th with four wins and a draw and will start favourites against the Lions although they've had an unusual preparation.

The Tigers were forced to hire a coach to get home from Sydney last weekend after their return flight was cancelled because of the volcanic ash drama.

"Our week has been disrupted as well," said Brown after the Lions' flight home from Melbourne last weekend was delayed by a day.

"We're playing on our home deck and we have to make that our home advantage.

"They've had two travels in a row which is always difficult.

"They're similar to us, they're an up and coming side and they are going to be hungry."

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