In the competition's opening game, the Lions were forced to find another gear after a serious scare from the visiting Bulls in the opening half at Alec Inch Oval.

The Lions led at the halfway point 20-18, but not before the Bulls looked momentarily unstoppable in attack, taking a slender lead.

The Lions ran out 54-18 winners with the home side's defence standing up.

Lions skipper Rob Hardgrave praised his side's efforts.

``It was a good performance from all the boys, especially playing for the first time together,'' he said.

``As a team we defended really well and our attack polished it off in the end.'' 

Hardgrave said improved communication was the key in the second half.

Allen Tripp scored three tries for the Lions while Bronson Smith and Luke Crumblin each scored a double.

Jamie Hull was on fire with seven conversions.

For the Bulls, Jon Kabay was strong in attack with two pack-busting tries.

Bulls coach Jeff Gleadhill said his side's first-up performance was full of merit.

``It was a solid first hitout, Townies are a good side so I'm very proud of my boys,'' he said.

Gleadhill said he was impressed with all of his players but labelled Elton and Shane Bounghi, Ricky Sumner, Mark Gunnis and Shane Wiggins as standouts.

``I also want to thank our five-eighth Dale Smith who coaches the boys while I'm at work,'' he said.

Gleadhill thanked Mount Isa for supporting his side, which travelled with a full side of 18 players.

In the earlier match, Wanderers easily accounted for Cloncurry in a trial game.

 TOWN LIONS (Allen Tripp 3 tries, Bronson Smith, Luke Crumblin 2, Cameron McKerrow, Axel Evans, Luke Harm 1, Jamie Hull 7 conv) defeated HUGHENDEN BULLS (Jon Kabay 2 tries, Elton Bounghi 1 try and 3 conv).