Star midfielder David Swallow was a shining light for the Gold Coast SUNS, turning in a career-best performance in the side’s 32-point loss to Adelaide in what was a hard-fought encounter for the much of the afternoon.

The former No. 1 pick was sensational in Sunday’s clash at Adelaide Oval, imposing his body at stoppages and crashing packs from the first bounce to the final siren.

Throughout his 60 previous career starts, Swallow had totalled 28 touches on four separate occasions.

But the combative ball hunter smashed his previous best return, picking up 32 of his 37 possessions prior to the three-quarter time huddle.

The Gold Coast vice-captain also added four marks, four inside-50 entries and two goals to his impressive display.

Speaking exclusively to SUNS TV after the side’s round 11 defeat to the Crows, Swallow said it was a disappointing result for a team that spent the entirety of the match chasing scoreboard deficits, and was unable to hit the lead despite cutting the margin at multiple stages.

“Our starts have been pretty good this year so for them to get a better start than us was disappointing,” Swallow said.

“But I thought the boys fought back quite well and the effort was there today; just need to clean up some key areas.

“They had a lot of run coming out of half-back so we have to have a look and be ready for next week.”

With ten starts now under his belt for the season, Swallow is averaging 25 disposals and more than a goal a match.

“It was nice to kick a couple of goals and contribute to the team, but it was a disappointing last quarter for the boys,” he said.

“It was a big crowd, the biggest we’ve ever played in front of; the boys will take a lot out of the experience, look at the tape and get back on the horse for next week.”

Gold Coast will now turn its attention towards top-four heavyweight, Sydney, which heads to the Glitter Strip hot on the heels of its 110-point slaughter of perennial finalist, Geelong.

“They had a great win against the Cats the other night, so another tough game but we do play good footy at home and the boys will be ready for the challenge.”