The Gold Coast SUNS have extended their unbeaten run to six and cemented their position on top of the ladder, in the 2023 Smithy’s VFL Premiership season with a 17.10 (112) to 13.14 (92) win over Casey Demons at Heritage Bank Stadium.
The SUNS were confident coming into the top-of-the-table clash after a comprehensive 73-point victory against Richmond last week, opening the afternoon’s scoring in the first two minutes.
Hewago Oea capitalised on the crumbing opportunity presented to him to snag the first goal of the match. The PNG native recorded two goals, 17 disposals and three marks for his afternoon duties.
Alex Sexton continued his goal scoring prowess, kicking a game high five goals, three of which came from the second quarter.
Top 10 VFL goalkickers, Brodie McLaughlin and Chris Burgess were among the leading goal scorers for the afternoon with three apiece.
Ned Moyle dominated the ruck with 42 hit-outs, 19 disposals, six marks, seven clearances and seven inside 50s.
The 206cm tall ruckman kept the Demons to only 13 total hit-outs for the match.
The tight match was dictated through defensive efforts with Mac Andrew standing up to the challenge of Demon’s forwards, recording 16 disposals and eight marks.
SUNS Academy young gun Will Derrington made the most of his second game at VFL level with two goals.
Jeremy Sharp, Joel Jeffrey, Jy Farrar and Oskar Faulkhead played key roles in the SUNS’ push forward and creating opportunities.
The SUNS will look to continue its unbeaten streak when the VFL side takes on crosstown rivals Southport Sharks at Fankhauser Reserve next Saturday.
Gold Coast SUNS: 2.3, 8.4, 13.8, 17.10 (112)
Casey Demons: 4.3, 6.9, 10.9, 13.14 (92)
Best
Gold Coast SUNS: Ned Moyle, Alex Sexton, Hewago Oea, Chris Burgess, Mac Andrew
Goals
Gold Coast SUNS: Alex Sexton (5), Brodie McLaughlin (3), Chris Burgess (3), Hewago Oea (2), Will Derrington (2), Joel Jeffrey, Cody Harrington
