THE BRISBANE Lions are missing a few pieces from last year when they were runners-up, but one thing they're not lacking ahead of their NAB AFL Women’s season opener on Saturday night is motivation. 

After an undefeated run through the home and away fixtures in 2017, the Lions fell six points short against Adelaide in the Grand Final.

They were shattered on that March afternoon at Metricon Stadium and the loss still hurts, some 10 months later.

On the eve of the Grand Final rematch against the Crows, the Lions have a chip on their shoulder.

Vice-captain Sabrina Frederick-Traub told AFL.com.au the fact they were "not rated" externally was providing plenty of fire. 

"It still burns with us that we lost the Grand Final," Frederick Traub said.

"We love being the underdog.

"There's definitely a sense we're not rated, but we thrive on that. 

"It'll be nice to start the campaign off in Adelaide against the Crows.

"I personally love feeling like I can prove someone wrong." 

Frederick-Traub said the Lions would have to slow Adelaide down if they wanted to replicate the upset win at Norwood Oval last year. 

The 21-year-old forward will play a slightly different role this season after Tayla Harris packed her bags for Carlton in the off-season. 

Previously Frederick-Traub split time between the forward line and ruck, but she will predominantly roam the forward 50 after the Lions drafted lanky Jessy Keeffe to handle the stoppages.

Frederick-Traub said Harris' departure would give her more space to work in. 

"We were both key targets and were trying to work together, and personally I don't think it worked as well because we're similar sorts of players," she said. 

"Sometimes when you have two of the same thing, you can cancel each other out.

"I think it'll be nice to have a bit more space.

"Being a leader and directing and being a massive presence and hopefully getting a few more goals this season (is my aim). I feel confident."