Gary Ablett’s sensational round 15 performance wasn’t enough to lift Gold Coast to its ninth win of the season, but the GC SUNS captain reminded fans he is still at the peak of his powers.

Gold Coast came out with a real physical presence in the opening term, matching the Hawks’ hard-at-it approach at the stoppages.

But the reigning premier showed its class and superior ability to score at will, amassing 35 inside-50 entries to the SUNS' 13 by the half-time break.

Things took a turn for the worst in the third term, with the Hawks kicking nine unanswered goals in a run which began in the second quarter, and they built an unassailable 59-point lead heading into the final change.

"Gaz" was a shining light for Gold Coast, though, with his 45 possessions marking a new record at Aurora Stadium.

While Gold Coast’s first six-pointer came courtesy of a 50m penalty awarded against Luke Hodge for infringing Ablett’s run at the off the ball, the 2013 Brownlow medallist did the hard work himself just moments later, swiping it out of a forward stoppage before dribbling it through the middle sticks.

He brought his season goal tally to 24 with a late score in the fourth period, completing his magnificent performance with a game-high eight clearances, six tackles and five inside-50s.

Ablett’s brilliant effort in the face of the 2013 premier will come as no surprise to footy fans, with the superstar captain having averaged 38 disposals in his previous five games against Hawthorn.