Matthews backs Bradshaw for opener.

(From Bulletin Wire)

Coach Leigh Matthews has backed Daniel Bradshaw to kick Brisbane to victory in Thursday night's season-opener against St Kilda after promising rookie Daniel Merrett was punted from the Lions' squad.

Bradshaw was given the show of faith by the selection panel following a series of standout performances during the club's mixed pre-season that included a six-goal effort against Essendon.

The 26-year-old will be joined by Jamie Charman in a revamped forward line in the wake of Alastair Lynch's retirement and Jonathan Brown's suspension incurred from last year's grand final.

Charman has made a remarkable recovery from a …