Brisbane Lions senior coach Chris Fagan reportedly had a "tense moment" with Queensland-based journalist Michael Whiting following his side's upset loss to the Bombers at the Gabba on Sunday afternoon.

Journalist Damian Barrett, speaking on Channel Nine's Footy Classified, claimed Fagan took offence to Whiting's match-report description of the Lions as "sub-par", leading to a confrontation that resulted in Fagan and Whiting coming within "very, very close proximity".

"There was certainly a tense moment," Barrett said on the Monday night program.

"It's the reference to the "sub-par for much of the day" which was made aware to Chris Fagan prior to the press conference happening.

"They certainly came together, they were in very, very close proximity.

"There's varying events. Chris Fagan is saying it didn't get physical - it's certain they got very close, his space was invaded, to use that terminology.

Barrett claims Fagan has already apologised to the highly-regarded afl.com.au reporter for what took place post-game.

"I think time over again Chris wouldn't have done what he did. He has, according to a conversation I had with him today, apologised for whatever happened to Michael Whiting, who is one of the very good journalists in the country.

"What it shows to me is they don't like us talking about the five losses out of the six finals he has coached. They don't like that. That is a statement of fact.

"They also wouldn't like the fact that they've lost four out of their last seven now."

Brisbane's loss last week has landed them in fourth position on the ladder, clinging to a top-four spot that is now being hunted down by the likes of Carlton, Collingwood and Sydney.

The Lions will travel to Western Sydney to face the Giants this weekend as they look to get back to winning ways and solidify a second-chance spot ahead of the finals.