Gold Coast were hurting after their narrow loss to the Giants but amidst the tight defeat numerous SUNS showed great grit and courage.
The disappointment was visible as the 22 left the field, having given their all in a contest many expected to be far more one-sided.
"To be able to do that against nearly a full-strength team, who are second on the ladder, probably the best running team in the competition, it was just a game of courage and grit," Rodney Eade told media post-match.
"Our contest, our ability to work for each other, I thought the spirit shown from the group, I must admit I thought it was amazing.
"I thought they were terrific."
Acting captain Steven May had his best game of the season, and arguably his career, re-writing many of his career-best stats including disposals (27) and marks (14). The Northern Territorian was there just about every time the Sherrin entered GWS’ forward 50, repelling multiple forward forays by the Giants.
Jarrod Harbrow, Rory Thompson and May combined for 16 rebound-50s, with the back-six coming together to stifle the Giant’s attack. Kade Kolodjashnij was close to his potent best, with 20 disposals and 10 marks while Jack Martin continued his good form with 22 touches.
As has become standard practice for the Gold Coast, May’s performance was mirrored at the other end of the ground by fellow co-captain Tom Lynch.
Lynch booted four goals, bringing his to equal second with Lance Franklin in the Coleman Medal race, along with two goal-assists, 19 disposals and nine marks.
Peter Wright, Ryan Davis and Brandon Matera kicked two goals a piece, with the forward line continuing to show their synergy. Callum Ah Chee cleanness with the footy was also a highlight, while Jarrod Garlett stuffed the stats sheet in his best game for the SUNS (19 disposals, five marks, four clearances, nine tackles).
In another week without many of their elite midfield counterparts Touk Miller and Matt Rosa stood up.
Miller finished with 24-disposals, five tackles and three inside 50s while Rosa managed seven tackles to go with five marks and 21 disposals
Who get’s your votes in round 20?
In round 19, Tom Lynch added to his impressive hall of votes already accumulated this season, with 25 overall. He was followed by midfielders Touk Miller and Matt Rosa, who came in second and third respectively.
Round 19 v Melbourne
Tom Lynch – 25 votes
Touk Miller – 20 votes
Matt Rosa – 15 votes
Season Leaderboard
Tom Lynch – 326 votes
Gary Ablett – 207 votes
Aaron Hall – 172 votes
