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CARLTON'S ability to hold off a second-half challenge from the Brisbane Lions was a sign of the playing group's continued development, according to young gun Bryce Gibbs.

The Blues saw a 48-point lead slashed to just two goals early in the final term, but Gibbs praised the growing maturity of the side to see off the fast finishing visitors.

"We always knew they were going to come at us," Gibbs said.

"We're not really used to being up by so much in the second or third quarter over the last two or three years, but it was good to be in that position and it really set us up to be able to hold on for the win.

"A side like Brisbane with Vossy as coach is obviously going to be really hard at it. When they came we just had to hold on and we're happy to get over the line."

Gibbs admitted the loss of full-back Michael Jamison to a shoulder injury in the second quarter had taken a little time to adjust to.

"Jammo really straightens us up. The boys had to shuffle around a bit down back and it was good that they could do the job," he said.

"We'll find out on Monday how bad it is."

Gibbs was a key performer in the win with 34 possessions and two goals.

"It was good to get amongst it and get a few kicks," he said.

"As long as we're winning, it's good."