Despite a late surge at Casey Fields, the SUNS fell short by just two points in their VFL season opener against the Casey Demons on Saturday.
The Demons may have fired out of the gates but the SUNS pushed the contest to the very last minute, kicking the game’s final three goals before falling 13.12 (90) to 13.10 (88).
The ‘boy from Borroloola’ Lloyd Johnston opened the SUNS’ 2025 VFL campaign scoring the first goal but it was the Dees who set the tone early.
New recruit Max Knobel dominated in the second quarter kicking two goals and finished as the SUNS’ leading scorer (three goals).
Key defender Caleb Graham played an impressive game at full-back, making a huge impact with nine intercept possessions and 26 disposals.
Alex Davies and Brayden Fiorini’s efforts were crucial, with the midfielders accumulating a combined 52 disposals, eleven tackles and nine clearances.
Leading the field with 42 hit outs, 2024 VFL Team of the Year member Ned Moyle delivered an outstanding performance.
Ben Jepson, followed in the footsteps of seasoned skipper James Tsitas with the pair both kicking two goals. Jepson slotted both of his goals in the final quarter, including a superb set shot in blustery conditions, but it wasn’t quite enough as the hosts took the points.
The SUNS host the Northern Bullants Saturday, April 5 in a People First Stadium curtain closer. FREE entry is included in the purchase of the Gold Coast SUNS v Adelaide Crows AFL tickets.
CASEY DEMONS 5.4 9.4 13.9 13.12 (90)
GOLD COAST VFL 2.2 5.7 10.7 13.10 (88)
GOALS
Casey Demons: Turner 5, Fullarton 3, Yze 2, Laurie 1, Edwards 1
Gold Coast SUNS: Knobel 3, Tsitas 2, Jepson 2, Rosas 1, Johnston 1, Himmelberg 1, Fyfe 1, Enders 1, Elliott 1
