The Brisbane Lions overcame a slow start and a lack of forward power to conjure up a two point win over Sydney at the Gabba.

The Swans led for most of the AFL match but the Lions grabbed the lead in the 25th minute of the third quarter to set up a last quarter arm wrestle.

The lead continually changed and the Swans had a chance to win the match in the dying minute but a set shot from ruckman Jason Ball went through for a point and the Lions won 11.14 (80) to 11.12 (78)

The Swans signalled they would be a force in 2004 but the Lions, after a slow start, showed their credentials despite an undermanned attack.

With full forward Alastair Lynch a late withdrawal and missing centre half forward Jonathan Brown with suspension, coach Leigh Matthews continually juggled his forward line.

It wasn't until Martin Pike went to centre half forward in the second quarter and kicked three goals for the match that the Lions had a target.

Using careful build-ups which produced an overwhelming amount of possession, the Swans went into halftime with a 19-point lead.

The Lions would have been further behind without the disciplined performance by fullback Mal Michael who continually repelled Swans attacks throughout the match.

Looking underdone, the Lions stars slowly came into the game with Simon Black and Jason Akermanis, who shook off Jared Crouch and Chris Johnson, providing plenty of rebound.

Lions captain Michael Voss has made some vital touches but spent plenty of time on the bench.

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