The Gold Coast SUNS recorded their first victory of 2015 against the Brisbane Lions on Saturday night, putting a disappointing start to the season behind them on the back of a clinical 64-point win in QClash 9.
Powerhouse key forward Charlie Dixon produced a dominant performance in just his second game back from ankle surgery to collect the Marcus Ashcroft medal. Dixon equalled his club record of six goals and collected 19 possessions and seven marks to be the most influential player on the ground. The spearhead’s performance can’t be measured by purely statistics, with his effort and intensity infectious on his teammates.
Harley Bennell had come under scrutiny throughout the week by the media, but responded in a convincing manner to be one of Gold Coast’s best against the Lions. The West Australian gathered 31 disposals, six inside 50s, three goal assists and booted two of his own to put the critics in their place.
Rookie revelation Adam Saad continued the brilliant start to his career with another eye-catching performance. Since debuting in round one, SUNS supporters have become accustomed to seeing the lightly-built speedster dart out of defence, leaving opponents grasping at clean air. Saad gathered a career-high 26 possessions on Saturday night to put him in the frame for a rising star nomination.
Dion Prestia continued his ultra consistent start to 2015 with another four-quarter performance. The ball magnet collected another 28 touches to go with ten clearances and seven tackles to once again be one of Gold Coast’s most effective players.
In just his first year in the AFL, Touk Miller has already stamped himself as a bona fide player of the future. His ability to keep his feet in the contest and make correct decisions under pressure has made him a standout in the opening part of 2015. Again on Saturday night, Miller stood out with 21 possessions at a brilliant efficiency rate of 90.5 per cent, to go with four inside 50s and two goal assists.
Who was your best in round five? Vote now!
After four rounds of voting in the Fans Player of the Year award, Michael Rischitelli is still out in front on 120 votes, ahead of Dion Prestia on 74 and Adam Saad on 54.
Round 4 Player of the Year Votes:
Michael Rischitelli 24
Dion Prestia 19
David Swallow 15
Overall Leaderboard after 4 rounds:
Michael Rischitelli 120
Dion Prestia 74
Adam Saad 54
