When Gold Coast local Brayden Crossley ran out for his first game on Saturday, he had one thing on his mind. 

Coming into the side to replace injured skipper Tom Lynch, the 198cm ruckman/forward was keen to simply get out there and play his role. 

“It was pretty good, obviously a big step up from the NEAFL,” Crossley said post-match.

“But I felt like I played my role for the team and did what I could down in the forward line there.”

Crossley earnt praise from coach Stuart Dew for the enthusiasm and energy he brought to the team.

Spending most of his time in the forward line, the 18-year-old was able to slot his first AFL goal while also providing support to primary ruckman Jarrod Witts.

The step up from NEAFL level didn’t seem to bother the youngster as he finished the game with 13 disposals and five tackles. 

“It was good, all the boys were really welcoming and trying to get us to just play our normal game, 

“Just telling us it’s not much of a step up and if we play our normal games that we’ll be right.

“I can’t even put it into words how happy I was when I kicked it (my goal) but all the boys got around me as well which was 10 times better.”

Crossley’s AFL debut was a dream come true and there were plenty of family members on hand to share in the moment.

“It felt like anytime the SUNS went near the ball it was just my family members screaming out for it,

“It was definitely a big representation of them out here.”