The Gold Coast SUNS were handed their first defeat of the 2016 season in round four, losing to the Brisbane Lions by 13 points on Saturday at the Gabba.

Based purely on the numbers, the loss should have perhaps been by a lot more, with the Lions enjoying 37 scoring shots to Gold Coast’s 24.

The home side also dominated the game’s key indicators, with disposals (+60), inside 50s (+18) and contested possessions (+22) all in the Lions favour.

In his post-match address to his players, coach Rodney Eade spoke about the SUNS’ failure to turn up which ultimately cost them a chance to go 4-0.

WATCH: Rodney Eade post-match

“He just spoke about how we didn’t turn up to play,” vice-captain Tom Lynch told BLK RAW post-game.

“They came to play, full credit to them. Contested footy and then on transition we weren’t quick enough so it was disappointing.

“We pride ourselves in that area and we didn’t perform up to our standards. ”

Lynch was one of very few shining lights on Saturday night, with the key forward booting five goals and plucking eight marks (six contested) to maintain his lead in the Coleman Medal race.

The beauty of football is there’s always next week and the SUNS are still sitting ahead of the ledger at 3-1 and in fifth position on the ladder.

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Gold Coast will tackle the unbeaten North Melbourne on Saturday at Metricon Stadium with a big week on the training track looming.

“We’ll review it on Monday and then we’ll turn it around for North Melbourne,” Lynch said.

“Play them at Metricon so we’ll train well this week and get ready for that.”