Gold Coast has started its NEAFL season with a hard-fought 20-point victory over a new-look Aspley in an entertaining tussle at Graham Road.
Gold Coast were able to take control in the third quarter, which in the end was the difference between the two sides, with the Gold Coast finishing 11.10. (76) to 8.8. (56) victors.
Aspley started very well, kicking the first two goals courtesy of James Ives and new recruit Jonathan Freeman.
Gold Coast then responded with two goals of their own to draw within one point of Aspley at quarter-time.
The second quarter was a real arm-wrestle with both sides going goal-for-goal throughout, finishing the half level.
Despite, losing ruckman Tom Nicholls to a shoulder injury, Gold Coast were able to gain control in the third.
Gold Coast kicked 3.5 to 0.3 to lead by 20-points at the last change.
The third quarter ended up being decisive, with Gold Coast able to work on their transition from attack to defence which Aspley were able to capitalise on the first half.
Aspley was unable to make the most of their possession, winning the inside 50s and disposals.
Gold Coast, however were able to win the contested football by 25 possessions, which is something new Gold Coast NEAFL coach, Nick Malceski, was impressed with.
“It was an area that we really wanted to match them in,” he told neafl.com.au.
“I think we won contested footy by plus 25. To have that and to finish with the win, was really pleasing for our boys.”
Lonnie Hampton was very good in his first game for Aspley, playing along the half back alongside former Gold Coast SUNS player Jackson Allen.
It was the SUNS though, who got the chocolates with some great performances from their young players.
18-year-old and captain for the day, Jacob Dawson, played a very selfless role and kept two-time NEAFL MVP, Matt Payne to just 7 possessions after half-time.
Malceski was extremely pleased with the role he played in the second half.
“Dawson’s role was vital to us to get the win, because we all know how good a player Matt Payne is,” he said.
Max Spencer was solid down back and despite getting beaten early by Jono Freeman, his leadership and composure was impressive in the second half.
Michael Barlow (36 disposals) and Jesse Lonergan (26 disposals) played well in the midfield as they continue to try and put their hand up for senior selection.
“They were outstanding in the middle. I thought their leadership was very, very good, and they have been building over the last three weeks now. It’s good because our seniors are winning, and we’ve been winning, so there is a lot of good competition for spots,” Malceski said.
The SUNS will travel to Mackay to take on the GIANTS next week, while Aspley will stay at Graham Road and take on the NT Thunder.
Aspley Hornets v Gold Coast SUNS at Graham Rd
GOLD COAST 2.1 5.3 8.8 11.10 (76)
ASPLEY 2.2 5.3 5.6 8.8 (56)
GOALS – Gold Coast: W Powell 2 C Nutting 2 K Lonergan T Bowie R Dreghorn C Ballard H Arnold J Schoenfeld E Baru.
BEST – Gold Coast: M Barlow J Lonergan J Dawson B Scheer C Ballard.
