DEVISING a strategy to slow down Dustin Martin is proving a headache for the Brisbane Lions, with coach Chris Fagan conceding they had multiple plans to curb the Tiger's influence when the teams meet on Sunday.

Martin is fresh off 40 disposals against West Coast last weekend and has been the catalyst for Richmond's 3-0 start to the season.

And historically the early season Brownlow Medal favourite has feasted against the Lions, averaging almost 28 disposals (he racks up more against only Gold Coast) in his nine matches, which also includes a career-high five-goal outing.

"We've thought about all those things," Fagan told AFL.com.au.

"Do you try and stop him (with a tagger), play someone on him that can do damage themselves, who plays on him when he goes forward because he's damaging there?

"They've been all the discussions.

"We've got a plan in mind, which I won't be discussing publicly."

Fagan was quick to point out that the excellent form of Trent Cotchin and the addition of Josh Caddy and Dion Prestia meant the Tigers had a deep midfield.

But Martin is the worry.

Under the scenarios Fagan pointed out, the Lions could possibly tag Martin with Mitch Robinson, go head to head with Dayne Beams, or even play defensive stopper Darcy Gardiner when the Tiger drifts inside forward 50.

"Midfield is a strength of ours, but we'll have Plan A, Plan B and Plan C going into the game," Fagan said.

"They're a very good side.

"Other than last year, where they had a fair few injuries, they've been up there playing finals and challenging for top four.

"Their form is no surprise.

"We haven't had a victory against Richmond since 2009, so it's been a long time between drinks – that's motivational for us."

Fagan said one of the Lions' main focuses this week was not letting the Tigers get away during the first half.

In the past fortnight, the Lions have conceded big leads to Essendon and St Kilda, and despite fighting back, have been overrun late in both matches.

"How many teams catch up and go past and win those sorts of games?

"If you've watched a lot footy over the years, it's not an easy thing to do. You see teams catch up, but not often go on with it once they get there.

"I think it's more important to not let them get away in the first place. At some point the opposition dig their heels in and come back at you.

"It's felt like we've tried too hard once we've got in front rather than sticking to what we know.

"It's another learning for us."