While it was a convincing defeat at Murchison Recreation Reserve, the Lions demonstrated their finals resolve with a fighting effort.
The two teams traded blows through much of the first quarter, with Stanhope emerging as the more potent threat, nailing three goals to take a slim, but encouraging lead of four points at the first break.
Unfortunately, the Grasshoppers remembered why they are the defending premiers with a second period explosion of seven goals to tear the lead away from the Lions, who slotted a pair of majors in reply.
With the game still within its grasp, Stanhope continued on with its consistency, getting another two goals on the board after half-time.
However, Murch built on its lead with a more subdued 3.3 in the third period, the lead now 33 at the final turn.
Heading into the fourth quarter, the match was still in the balance, but the fight in the Lions was snuffed out down the stretch with the visitors managing to eke out one more behind to finish their day.
Meanwhile, the Grasshoppers kicked away with a trio of maximums in the fourth to bury Stanhope 15.9 (99) to 7.3 (45).
Bol Wol (2) was the only Lion to kick more than one goal, with Stuart Trevena being named best-on for Stanhope.
The 54-point loss will make it difficult for the Lions to break into the finals frame with two games remaining in the season, particularly after its closest contemporary Rushworth got a win in round 15.
The Lions should get back on the winners’ list against Tallygaroopna in round 16, before wrapping up their season against Lancaster after a bye.
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