The Lions were dominated by the Goannas in their first encounter, going down by 49 points, but exacted revenge with a 25-point victory at Ganmain.

The win, set up by five unanswered goals in the third term, ended MCUE's unbeaten run and allowed GGGM to leap to top spot on percentage.

Without key forwards Riley Corbett and George Alexander, the tactics and structure the Lions employed worked perfectly with the undersized Jack McCaig lining up at full forward, and Jono Neville staying down back on Goannas forward George Kendall.

"That last loss (in round five) was tough. They really towelled us up that first game, there's no other way to describe it really," Walsh said.

"We thought we were more ready this time and we wanted to show it, that performance proved we are capable.

"Today's win probably doesn't mean a lot other than we've given ourselves self belief we can match it with the best.

"We definitely set ourselves for this game. They've been on top all year, but we primed ourselves."

The victory also showed they have enough firepower to kick a score against the best teams without Corbett and Alexander.

Alexander (ankle) is out for the season while it is hoped Corbett (quad) returns before finals.

Daniel Foley spent time in the ruck and up forwarding, booting three goals, while midfielder Matt Hamblin chipped in with two.

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Walsh said plenty of credit should be given to Martyn and his offsiders for finding the right mix.

"He's pretty smart and knows the game really well. He's also got good support on the bench who can make adjustments during the game," Walsh said.

"He's one of those coaches who can play well, but also think about the game and what needs to be done. It's a skill that's tough to do.

It's good to have that flexibility with tall blokes to move them around."

The Lions can secure the minor premiership should they win their last three games.

Their run into the finals begins with a tough away trip against the surging Wagga Tigers on Saturday, followed by clashes against Griffith and Coolamon.

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