On Friday night the SUNS held a four-quarter match simulation in preparation for Round 2 against West Coast on June 13.

The squad was split into two teams, with the midfielders mixed evenly between both sides.

There were some interesting storylines to come from the hit-out which could hint towards a best 22.

Here’s what we learnt.

1. The wing dilemma: Is Wil Powell in line for a Round 2 call-up? The third-year SUN spent a significant amount of time out on the wing, while also rotating forward. Noah Anderson and Brayden Fiorini also spent stints on the wing while Lachie Weller and Brandon Ellis have played there in Round 1. 

2. Rookie watch: Matt Rowell was busy early while Anderson complemented him well on the wing. A team-switch at halftime saw Sam Flanders switch with Sean Lemmens. Connor Budarick is a good chance to retain his place in the AFL side after performing well down back in a small defender role. Jeremy Sharp showed some promising signs on the wing opposing Anderson. 

3. Battle of the big men: Defender Charlie Ballard played his in his first match back from a shoulder injury and looked right at home as part of the defensive unit. A handful of intercept marks were the highlight from his performance. Ballard and Jack Hombsch switched teams at ¾ time to provide a different look for both defensive ends. Peter Wright and Sam Day also switched teams at ¾ time as both showed signs in the key forward posts. 

4. Veterans return: The pair both missed Round 1 but Pearce Hanley and Jarrod Harbrow both played tonight and offered plenty with their experience and composure. 

5. Sexton a crucial cog in the forward line: Alex Sexton left a big hole in the SUNS forward line when he missed Round 1 with a hamstring injury. Since recovering, he’s been a standout on the training track and looks as fit as ever. He bounced back in a big way on Friday night kicking four goals to stamp his return in a dangerous forward line which now includes Ben Ainsworth, Darcy Macpherson and Ben King, who also kicked four.