From the outset, the Lions out-muscled Cranbourne's younger side around the ball and jumped to a match-winning six-goal lead by half-time.

Cranbourne found some confidence in a more competitive second half but was unable to make serious inroads against a strong Pakenham defence.

The Lions won 13.12 (90) to 7.10(52). Best afield was Pakenham's captain Jared Goldsack - brother of Collingwood AFL player Tyson - who dominated in the midfield.

He was ably assisted by Dom Paynter, who kicked three last-quarter goals. Sean Gramc and Glen Wouters bagged two each.

Other contributors included Dean Blake on a wing and Nathan Brown down back.

Cranbourne's best were midfielders Marc Holt, Ray George and Curtise Barker and 18-year-old wingman Ryan George.

Next weekend, Cranbourne plays Narre Warren in the first semi-final.

The Lions have beaten the Magpies already this year but face a Narre Warren side that's won three on the trot.

In the second semi-final, Pakenham will play Doveton for a grand final berth.

Pakenham, which went out of the finals in straight sets after finishing top last year, has been known to put too much pressure on itself.

But having recruited well and built a strong core of young talent, the Lions look primed to atone for last season's disappointing finish.