For the most part the GC SUNS dominated in the contested football, with an even spread of possession-getters elevating the pressure from skipper Gary Ablett who still managed to collect a team-high 24 possessions for the afternoon.
Today, the players took to the training field for their last solid hit-out before enjoying a few days of rest heading into their season opener against St. Kilda at Metricon Stadium next week.
Despite intensity and pressure dropping off during in one quarter of each of the GC SUNS first three matches of the NAB Cup senior coach Guy McKenna believes the message that intensity and effort were among the non-negotiables heading into the premiership season had been received by the players.
“I thought it was a good four-quarter effort from our boys,” said McKenna.
“Melbourne had their opportunities and moments in the game, but credit to our boys; their willingness to get after the contested footy, and put pressure on them when they had it, was really good.”
Future key position players Steven May and Sam Day showed plenty of promise for the GC SUNS in their final practise match of the pre-season, suggesting to GC SUNS coaching staff that the dynamic duo were edging closer towards establishing a consistent run in both the forward and backline.
“Our big boys up forward and down back really contributed well for us,” McKenna said.
“Sammy Day got his hands on it, while Dixon was great in the ruck for us.”
‘I don’t think Steven (May) took a heap of marks but his ability to compete and bring the ball to ground allowed our smalls to get their hands on it.
McKenna said the challenge was now to embed consistency into the growing playing group.
“This one week and we’ve 24 weeks ahead. We have to consistently deliver like we did on Saturday.”
