Combative midfielder David Swallow turned in a polished performance for the Gold Coast SUNS on a thrilling night at Metricon Stadium, as the home team stunned the Bombers to capture an after-the-siren win in their first NAB Challenge match.

From the first bounce to the final siren, the Gold Coaster imposed his body around the stoppages, finishing with 23 disposals and a game-high six tackles.

Speaking exclusively with SUNS TV after the side’s emphatic after-the-siren win over the Bombers, Swallow said the victory would give the young side plenty of confidence in their build-up to the 2014 Season.

“Yeah it was a good first hit-out for the boys, and really good to be back playing football again,” he said.

Although being down by 31-points early in the third quarter, Swallow said his teammates had the confidence they could chase down the significant deficit, having gained plenty of extra kilometres in their legs courtesy of Stephen Schwerdt’s advanced pre-season training program.

“The boys were pretty confident we had the fitness, so it was good to keep playing our strengths and get over them in the end.”

Looking ahead, the newly appointed Vice-Captain said the one-point victory would give the playing group plenty of confidence heading into their second NAB Challenge match against Brisbane, who are expected to come out with increased scrutiny after their 131-point hammering to Hawthorn.

“The boys will definitely go in with the same focus of sticking in with the basics and hopefully we can kick a few more goals.”

“It was certainly good to sharpen our skills and get the confidence.”