From celler dwellers the last few years, the Lions will on Saturday head to Moree to play in their first finals series since 2010.

Along with belief and the return of a few old heads one of the catalysts for their revival has been the injection of some new blood. The likes of Jake Smith and Ben Webber have added that bit of extra spark to the backline.

Both hail from the UK, and play for Honiton over there, and have been loving their time at the Lions. So much so that in Smith’s case, he’s planning to return next year.

The 20-year old has been a revelation on the wing for the Lions after starting the season in the centres. 

"We made a tactical change putting James Clift into the centres and me on the wing. I haven't been able to push my way back in," he said.

That might be as much to do with the way Clift has been playing there as Smith has on the wing.

"Jake's finishing is second to none," Lions co-coach Ben Wilkes said. 

"He's a big guy and has got some pace."

He showed that as he opened the scoring for them in their win over Gunnedah on Saturday, the win secured the Lions their finals spot.

"Everyone deserves it. We've played so well,” Smith said.

“I can't wait for the finals."