After a fighting eight-point victory over Melbourne on Easter Sunday, it’s difficult to see coach Guy McKenna tinkering too much with a winning line-up.
However, there are a number of players staking their claims via the NEAFL for a position in the GC SUNS’ best 22.
#3 Timmy Sumner
Sumner continues to push hard for a senior recall with 21 possessions in the NEAFL against the Sydney Swans reserves, backing up from 24 possessions and two goals the week prior.
What they said…
“When he is good he is great and we just need to see more of it, but last two weeks we have seen some encouraging signs from Timmy.”
- GC SUNS reserves coach, Josh Fraser
#21 Jeremy Taylor
Taylor was a standout two weeks ago against the NT Thunder (33 disposals) and continued his excellent form against the Sydney Swans with 21 disposals, seven marks, five tackles and five clearances. Travelled to the MCG on Sunday as the senior emergency and must be close to senior selection.
What they said…
“We played JT in the midfield last weekend, and while it isn’t his ideal spot, I think the run will steer him in good stead. If we can get him to run and break the lines, which is a strength of his, he will not be far away from being awarded a senior opportunity.”
- GC SUNS reserves coach, Josh Fraser
#29 Tom Murphy
It was another solid game in the NEAFL for the key defender with 14 disposals and nine marks across half back. Against the Swans reserves, Murphy had to compete with twin towers Kurt Tippett (201cm) and Toby Nankervis (199cm) in defence and was one of few who could walk off the SCG with his chin up.
What they said…
“Murphy has been super, he just competes and competes and his leadership has been a stand-out for mine. He has consistently been in our best players, and when an opportunity comes he will be ready to go.”
- GC SUNS reserves coach, Josh Fraser
#31 Jackson Allen
Allen followed up his 21-possession game in Round 3 of the NEAFL with 17 disposals, six marks, four clearances and five rebound 50s last Saturday against the Sydney Swans reserves.
What they said…
“His ability to run and use the footy in space has been great. He has been challenged about being strong in the contest and he has well and truly responded in the right way. We think he is starting to put together some good form and show some good traits.”
- GC SUNS reserves coach, Josh Fraser
#37 Jesse Lonergan
Lonergan returned from a fractured left hand and was impressive in his first game back in SUNS colours. Although a little rusty, Lonergan showed plenty of intensity with 15 disposals, five clearances and a game-high six tackles.
What they said…
“He’s worked his bum off in his rehab so for him to be playing on the weekend was terrific. The boys all love him, we love him as coaches, so for him to play well and be on the course to senior footy is terrific. He shouldn’t be too far away.”
- GC SUNS head fitness coach, Max Kennedy
Karmichael Hunt and Nathan Bock missed the NEAFL clash against the Sydney Swans but should be back in the reserves this week. Seb Tape and Daniel Gorringe both made their return to football against the Swans but will require additional match fitness before being considered for senior selection.
