A seven-goal opening term was exactly what the Brisbane Lions needed at Norwood Oval, on the way to mauling North Melbourne by 70 points.

The 16.16 (112) to 6.6 (42) cakewalk in AFL Gather Round twilight game on Friday is Brisbane’s first win of the season.

Compounding the 0-3 start for last year’s grand finalists, the Lions also emphatically denied during the week there were internal ructions following an off-season trip to the United States.

Coach Chris Fagan had predicted the unwanted media attention would galvanise his team and the rebuilding Kangaroos were the unlucky victims.

As dual Brownlow Medallist Lachie Neale racked up 14 possessions in the opening term and 24 in the first half, the Lions led by 56 points at the main break.

With Brisbane on top through the midfield, it was always going to be a tough game for the inexperienced North defence.

Joe Daniher took full toll, kicking 5.4, and fellow key forward Eric Hipwood also contributed three goals after his below-par start to the season.

Hipwood had the crowd of 9037 at The Parade roaring in an otherwise-regulation last term when he took a big mark and kicked his third major.

To their credit, the young Kangaroos regrouped at halftime and booted the first two goals of the third term.

But they only reduced the margin by two points for the quarter.

Neale came off in the last term and was seen having treatment on an ankle, but even before the final siren Lions officials were saying it is precautionary only.

With his work well-and-truly done, Neale had just three possessions in the second half.

He finished with 27 disposals, including 13 contested possessions and seven clearances, and fellow onballer Hugh McLuggage had a game-high 36 touches.

North may well request another opponent for Gather Round after the Lions also smacked them by 75 points last year at Mt Barker.

Young gun Harry Sheezel was best for the Kangaroos off halfback and the wing, while ruckman Tristan Xerri also impressed.