Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan wasn’t bothered by the poor kicking that almost cost his reigning premiers a top-four finish, declaring their defence the “best ever” regular season of his nine in charge.

The hosts defied more Gabba wobbles to edge past Hawthorn and lock in the second-chance in their AFL title defence, winning 11.23 (89) to 11.13 (79) in Dayne Zorko’s 300th game on Sunday.

The hosts began with eight straight behinds and then, with the game at their mercy, kicked nine consecutive points and another out on the full in a tense Sunday night high-stakes battle.

The Hawks would have shot to fourth with victory but will instead begin the finals from seventh or eighth, depending on the result of Wednesday’s last home and away game between current ninth-placed Gold Coast and Essendon.

The Lions were 7-4 at the Gabba but lost just two games on the road in a 16-6-1 season that defied regular injuries and a hazardous draw.

“It’s probably been our best ever,” Fagan said ahead of a seventh consecutive finals appearance.

“I’m really proud of the boys that they’ve been able to withstand all the pressure, the scrutiny everyone, picking their game to pieces when you when you win a flag, and here we are.

“We’ve earned a double chance again.”

Hugh McCluggage (32........

© The Sydney Morning Herald