The NEAFL season is fast approaching and Gold Coast’s reserves side finalised their preparations with a 25-point win over the Brisbane Lions.

The SUNS travelled to the South Pine Sports Complex for their third practice match, coming away with a 12.6 (78) to 6.17 (53) victory.

Nick Malceski, Gold Coast’s NEAFL Coach, was impressed by his team’s effort and how they applied themselves in the contest.

“I was pleased with how the lads played this week. There were specific focus areas for each line and I believe they executed them,” Malceski told goldcoastfc.com.au.

“From a team perspective we kept it simple, focused on our contest and team defence.

“It was pleasing to have won the tackle count too.” 

A number of Gold Coast players again pressed their case for selection, with midfielders Charlie Ballard, Jesse Lonergan and Michael Barlow among the best.

Second year SUN Will Brodie played in an unfamiliar run-with role, but applied himself well to shut Brisbane’s Tom Bell out of the game.

“We gave him a tagging role on Bell, a different role to what he generally plays but did a super job.” 

“He kept him to eight touches up until 15minutes into the 3^rd quarter where we thought he did a good job, so we gave him another role.”

Saturday’s game also marked the return of Harrison Wigg, who joined the SUNS during last year’s trade period.

The half back suffered a fractured ankle in December, but has now completed his rehab and will work his way towards full match fitness.

“It was great to see him back out there with the boys. He played down back, showed good leadership, defended ok and got his hands on the ball. 

“Played 70-odd minutes and will look to build on that heading into this week against Aspley.”

 Gold Coast will take on Aspley in Round One of the NEAFL season this Saturday.

The match will be played at Graham Road at 1.30pm.