The Gold Coast SUNS notched its first win of the 2023 season with an inspiring final quarter against Geelong at Heritage Bank Stadium on Sunday night.
For Senior Coach Stuart Dew, it was most pleasing to see his team respond after being challenged with an 0-2 start to the season.
“The main thing was we didn’t panic on the back of last week,” Dew said post-match.
“Last week we felt for three quarters we played with the same intensity and pressure.
“Today we feel like everyone stood up when it was their moment. A lot of guys responded on the back of being challenged during the week.”
An inspiring final quarter from Jack Lukosius gave the side a boost, which started when the silky forward booted a set shot goal from inside the centre square.
“He puts the work in and does that regularly at training,” Dew said.
“We just haven’t been able to connect with him as much as we would have liked.
“(It got) to the point where I bought a high-vis shirt for him to wear around the club so that everyone could see him.
“We know he can play that role and he can be really damaging when given an opportunity.”
It was a fitting occasion for 200-gamer David Swallow, who finally tasted success in a milestone match.
Dew said Swallow had been a pillar of the club since the very start.
“We’re really happy for him and his support crew and his family that we got the result he deserved today,” Dew said.
“The way he leads the boys is team-first, he’s always selfless and looking out for others with no ego.
“His best is still to come – he’s in great shape and is playing impactful footy.”
