Rivalry. It's a cornerstone of sport and ignites a passion like none other.

While it may only be in its sixth year, the rivalry between Gold Coast and Brisbane is expanding with each encounter. Twice in the AFL Premiership Season the sides meet, deciding who takes home the coveted QClash Trophy and ultimate bragging rights.

Aside from the QClash Trophy, the rivalry match-up between the SUNS and Lions also brings with it the Marcus Ashcroft Medal. Awarded to the best on-ground performer in each QClash game, the Medal is judged by three football experts and awarded immediately post-match.

Dual winners of the award include SUNS skipper Gary Ablett and Brisbane's Irish-import Pearce Hanley.

The medal's namesake Marcus Ashcroft is Queensland football royalty, one of only two Queensland-born players to play 300 AFL games. Ashcroft played 318 games for Brisbane (Bears and Lions) including three premierships, and is now the General Manager - Football Operations for the Gold Coast SUNS.

After 11 matches, the Lions hold a seven to four win advantage over the SUNS, including an upset win in the latest QClash in round 4, 2016. On home turf the SUNS will be looking to not only even the ledger but regain pride and ensure one of their own wins the Ashcroft Medal.

Past Marcus Ashcroft Medal Winners
Round 7, 2011- Jared Brennan (Gold Coast)
Round 21, 2011- Simon Black (Brisbane)
Round 4, 2012- Tom Rockliff (Brisbane)
Round 17, 2012- Gary Ablett (Gold Coast)
Round 3, 2013- Jonathan Brown (Brisbane)
Round 15, 2013- Matthew Leuenberger (Brisbane)
Round 3, 2014- Gary Ablett (Gold Coast)
Round 18, 2014- Pearce Hanley (Brisbane)
Round 5, 2015- Charlie Dixon (Gold Coast)
Round 19, 2015- Tom Lynch (Gold Coast)
Round 4, 2016- Pearce Hanley (Brisbane)