Gold Coast’s forward line played a remarkable game against the Sydney Swans last Sunday, surging back from a 29-point trail in the first half to win by 38 points.
Young forward, Jed Walter’s (3.1), two goals in the final minutes of the second quarter closed the gap and set the tone for what would become a dominating second half, impressing Senior Coach Damien Hardwick.
“It was a really important game for our forward line,” Hardwick said.
“We’ve got effectively five teenagers down there and we’d be pretty close to the youngest forward line in the competition.
“Unfortunately, last week (against Richmond) they had all their down days at the same time but this week they were fantastic and their ability to compete in the air got better as the game progressed.
“All our young forwards did a terrific job.”
Teen Talent, Walter, says his bounce-back performance was fueled by Hardwick’s wise words.
“Dimma backs us each week. Obviously, we failed a little bit against Richmond but to respond the way we did on the weekend, Dimma obviously gives us great feedback,” the StreetSmarts Academy graduate said.
“We always need to hear what we need to hear when things aren't going well but then we also hear the things we need to hear when we are going well.
“His positive feedback and affirmation has been great for us and we're definitely a confident young group at the moment.”
SUNS skipper Noah Anderson was also impressed with the young forwards’ efforts and grit.
“Obviously Richmond was a tougher week, but all-in-all they've had such a great year and then we still understand they're young players so they're going to have a down week every now and again,” Anderson added.
“For them to respond the way they did was really pleasing and had a huge impact on the game.
“So full credit goes to them.”
Dimma says current Coleman Medal leader, Ben King, has been leading the way for tall teens Jed Walter and Ethan Read.
“Kingy is doing a great job of tutoring those guys and getting them to understand the cues to read and what the game looks like at various stages,” Dimma added.
“So his leadership in that space has been very good.”
This Sunday’s QClash against the Brisbane Lions kicks off at 7:20 pm at the Gabba. Catch all the action on Fox Footy, Kayo and 7mate.
Full-season access members can support the SUNS in Brisbane by simply scanning their membership barcode in the SUNS app. Free transport on train and bus networks to the Gabba is included with SUNS memberships or match tickets.
