Midfielder Jarryd Lyons led the way for Gold Coast as they held on for a seven-point victory in a scrappy game against the Brisbane Lions.

The attack on the ball was fierce from both sides and Lyons was heavily involved in plenty of contests.

With a game-high 33 disposals – including 17 contested possessions – and six clearances, he was one player who thrived in the conditions.

The heavy rain played a big part in how both teams approached the game, with Gold Coast adopting a very direct style of football.

“Obviously pretty scrappy conditions and we didn’t really get to play the way we wanted to play,” Lyons told SUNS TV post-match.

“It (game plan) probably changes it a little bit, in terms of a lot more kick than handball but I think we’re looking to play a bit more direct this year anyway."

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The 25-year-old was a big factor in driving the ball forward and typified the direct game plan, with ten inside 50s and four score involvements.

He was impressed with the team’s ability to adjust to the conditions and work hard at every contest.

With Brisbane finishing the game strongly, the SUNS were able to see out the game thanks to final quarter goals from Aaron Hall and Darcy Macpherson. 

“That’s footy, we’re going to face that throughout the year so it was good of the boys to adapt to the conditions out there and obviously get that win.

“I think we adjusted really well out there and held them off when they were coming, because they did come at us.

“It was a really good challenge building into round 1.”