The Gold Coast SUNS have survived a late onslaught by the Southport Sharks at Fankhauser Reserve to take home the Mackenzie Cup on Saturday afternoon.

The Round 8 match was a tight affair with the SUNS outscoring the Sharks 12.4 (76) to 10.14 (74). 

The SUNS shot off to an early lead in the first half setting up a 41-point margin at the main break. 

Chris Burgess was the leading goal scorer for the SUNS kicking three goals, with his first two coming in the first quarter. 

The key forward had a busy afternoon having 11 touches and taking five marks.

Jy Farrar and Caleb Graham teamed up well in the defensive third, denying the Sharks a goal until well inside the second quarter. 

Bodhi Uwland had a standout performance with 21 disposals and six marks, but it was his defensive pressure and spoils that made the afternoon difficult for the Sharks’ forwards. 

Charlie Constable played a key role in the midfield, teaming up with Sam Flanders as the side’s major ball winners.

Constable recorded 24 disposals, five marks, three tackles, six clearances and three inside 50s while Flanders was strong in the midfield with 34 touches, eight marks, eight clearances and four inside 50s. 

Jeremy Sharp kicked two striking goals for the SUNS, including his team’s tenth goal of the afternoon in the third term, from a set shot well outside the forward 50. 

Seven SUNS Academy players made the step up to VFL level, including Ben O’Brien and Taine Dawson who made their VFL debuts. 

Dawson joined the illustrious first goal, first touch club, soccering off the deck to nab his first VFL goal. 

O’Brien and fellow Academy prospect Marlin Corbett also kicked a goal apiece. 

Gold Coast SUNS: 6.2, 9.3, 11.4, 12.4 (76) 

Southport Sharks: 0.1, 2.4, 4.6, 10.14 (74) 

Best 

Gold Coast SUNS: Jy Farrar, Caleb Graham, Bodhi Uwland, Charlie Constable, Chris Burgess, Jeremy Sharp 

Goals 

Gold Coast SUNS: Chris Burgess (3), Jeremy Sharp (2), Brodie McLaughlin (2), Alex Sexton, Ben O’Brien, Sam Flanders, Taine Dawson, Marlin Corbett