The Gold Coast SUNS and GWS Giants played to a thrilling draw on Sunday afternoon at Manuka Oval in Canberra, with Jamie Stanton’s clutch goal on the final siren securing the SUNS their first points of the 2024 AFLW season.
After a hard-fought contest, GWS took the lead late in the fourth quarter, but the SUNS remained composed. As the final siren sounded, Stanton slotted the game-equalling goal, sending the SUNS supporters in Canberra into celebration.
Stanton was praised by teammate Elise Barwick for her composure during the crucial moment.
“I couldn’t have been happier (to see the ball in her hands). I was like, ‘Stanno is built for this,’ and that’s what (Cameron) Joyce said on the bench — she’s built for this. She kicked it for us, and we’re so stoked,” Barwick said.
Earlier in the game, Barwick experienced her own memorable moment, scoring her maiden AFLW goal in the first quarter.
“It happened so quick. Not many people knew (it was my first), but it was good. Hopefully there’s more to come, but it was nice to get that first one,” Barwick said.
This weekend, the SUNS return to their home ground at People First Stadium for Round 4, where they’ll take on Geelong. The match also marks a milestone for Georgia Clayden, who will play her 25th AFLW game. Reflecting on reaching this achievement, Clayden shared her excitement.
“It’s just come up so quick, it’s crazy. But on the same token, it feels like I’ve been here forever. I’ve just loved every moment from being here and getting to 25 games is incredibly exciting,” Clayden said.
Clayden’s consistency has been a key feature of her AFLW career so far as she’s yet to miss a game since debuting in Round 1 of Season Seven.
“Having that consistency to have played every game throughout my time here… you definitely don’t take it for granted. You just don’t know what will happen week-to-week with selection and injuries,” Clayden said.
Both Barwick and Clayden acknowledged that the team has more to give after a slow start to the season, with two losses and a draw from their first three matches.
“We’re a better side than what we’ve shown so far, and I think this is a great chance to show what we’re capable of,” Barwick said.
Clayden also recognised there are areas for improvement with the side focusing on consistent performances.
“We’ve just got to fix a few little things. We’re doing some really good things, but it’s about doing them consistently for four quarters. We know we’ve still got potential we haven’t quite reached yet.” Clayden said.
As the SUNS prepare to face Geelong at home on this Saturday at 12:05pm (AEST), they’ll be looking to build on their recent performance and secure their first victory of the 2024 season. Click here to secure your tickets.
If you can’t make it to the game, you can stream the match live and on demand on Kayo or watch on Fox Footy and the Seven network (check your local guides).
