Brisbane forward Eric Hipwood didn’t take much convincing to begin the week before his first AFL final by committing his future to the Lions.

The 21-year-old, who was already under contract for next season, announced on Monday he’d signed on with Brisbane until the end of the 2023 campaign.

Hipwood believes it’s the perfect build-up to Saturday’s qualifying final against Richmond – Brisbane first finals appearance since 2009.

“I wasn’t hesitant at all. As soon as they came to me with an offer I was pretty quick to sign it,” Hipwood said.

The news means Hipwood can put all his concentration on helping Brisbane end a 13-game losing run to the Tigers.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge,” Hipwood said.

“What better side than beating Richmond?

“They’re a fantastic side, especially in finals and I think you’ve got to beat the best to become the best. It’s a good preparation to what the next four weeks holds.”

A round 23, 27-point loss to Richmond at the MCG means Brisbane last tasted victory over the Tigers in 2009 but Hipwood believes the teams are closer than many may think.

“They got the jump on us and apart from that first quarter I think the scoreline was pretty even,” Hipwood said.

“You’ve just got to be able to play consistent footy for that four quarters and you’ve just got to be there within a few goals of that last few minutes and anything can happen.”