It has been far from the start to the season the Gold Coast SUNS yearned for. Two losses from the opening two games has Rodney Eade’s men in the firing line from all sections of the football universe.
With far from an even spread of contributors in the first two games, respected leaders Michael Rischitelli and Dion Prestia have stood up and made an impressive start to the 2015 season. The pair were two of the SUNS' best players against Melbourne in round one, and they backed it up with eye-catching games against St Kilda on Saturday night.
Rischitelli appeared to have brought his on football in the opening quarter. He had a staggering 17 possessions in the opening quarter alone to be the most dominant player on the ground. The veteran midfielder finished the game with 35 possessions, eight clearances and six inside 50s to be Gold Coast’s most influential player in the 28-point loss.
Stoppage specialist Prestia also picked up where he left off against the Demons. Just like Rischitelli, the ball magnet accumulated possessions at will in the opening term. He had 14 disposals at the first break, before slowing down to finish with 27 and two goals for the game. Prestia’s clean hands around the stoppages were masterful with ten clearances highlighting his effectiveness in tight.
Mature-aged rookie Adam Saad continued his impressive start to his career at Metricon Stadium with another eye-catching performance. His daring runs from inside defensive 50 were again a feature, with five bounces on Saturday night. Saad finished his second game with 21 possessions next to his name and four rebound 50s.
Who was your best in Round 2? Vote now!
In the opening round defeat to Melbourne on Easter Saturday, Michael Rischitelli narrowly pipped Dion Prestia by the narrowest of margins to be voted as the SUNS best player with 26 votes. Debutant Adam Saad received the third most votes with 14, whilst Steven May earned nine votes for his performance on Jesse Hogan.
Round 1 v Melbourne
- Michael Rischitelli - 26 votes
- Dion Prestia - 25 votes
- Adam Saad - 14 votes
