1. Malthouse under the pump (again)
After a disappointing loss last week in Mick Malthouse's record-breaking 715th game, the Blues failed to relieve the pressure on their under-fire coach. The nine-point loss to the previously winless Lions will have only intensified the blowtorch aimed at Princes Park this week. Malthouse, who is in the final year of his contract, said under no circumstances would he walk away from the task at hand. But with every loss, the scrutiny on the veteran coach will continue to mount. The rebuilding Blues are under no illusions as to the challenge in front of them but the question remains: Is Malthouse the right man to see the job through? More losses like this won't help Mick's cause.

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2. Leppitsch's tough week ends on a high
It was a relieved but understated Justin Leppitsch who addressed the media after the game. The Lions saluted for their first win of their season and it could not have come soon enough. Leppitsch's involvement in an altercation with one of his players – Zac O'Brien – only added to the external heat being applied to the club. Despite the events of the week, Leppitsch was adamant the club had always maintained its focus on the game ahead. The Lions coach praised the efforts of Daniel McStay, who booted a career-high four goals, and young defender Harris Andrews who stood up mightily across half-back. The Lions still have some major issues – led by James Aish's unresolved contract situation and the fact they remain anchored to the bottom of the ladder –but there was a sense of optimism coming out of the rooms after the game. It will serve them well for a tough contest against Port Adelaide next Sunday. 

3. Casboult straps his kicking boots on
Much has been made of Levi Casboult's wayward goal kicking, but against the Lions on Sunday he had his kicking boots firmly strapped on. Casboult has been working hard on lowering his ball drop from hand to boot with kicking coach Saverio Rocca and it looks to be paying dividends. Casboult looked far more confident when lining up for goal and his set shot routine appeared to be much more fluent and deliberate. The power forward booted four goals for the match, while his contested marking again proved to be a major strength. If he can keep kicking straight, Casboult will prove to be a valuable forward option for coach Mick Malthouse. 

4. Robinson ruffles a few feathers
Mitch Robinson left Carlton under unceremonious circumstances, so there was bound to be some ill feeling when he squared off against his old side for the first time on Sunday. The tough nut was not afraid to bump and harass his former teammates, who were just as happy to give it back. It seemed as though Robinson took pleasure in lining up a few Blues – in particular Andrew Walker who was his main opponent. He also applied a destructive tackle on Blues draftee Blaine Boekhorst in the final term. Robinson, who received the Bronx cheers from the Blues faithful whenever he went near the ball, finished the game with 16 disposals and seven marks in a typically workman like performance. 

5. Robertson's run in with the fence
Young Lion Nick Robertson delivered the most dramatic piece of play for the day, when he went crashing into the fence in what could have been a serious third quarter incident. Battling for the ball with Blue Tom Bell on the boundary line, Robertson lost his balance and was pushed with force. He lay motionless for a few minutes, as the Lions' medical staff immediately called for the stretcher. Thankfully, Robertson sat up and he was carted off the field – albeit in an upright position and talking to the club doctor. Remarkably, the brave 19-year-old came back onto the ground in the fourth quarter and played out the match.