DANNY Stanley was amongst the Gold Coast SUNS best in their Round 22 battle against St. Kilda, but Stanley’s influence wasn’t enough to get the GC SUNS over the line, the visitors going down  by 46-points at Etihad Stadium. 

Averaging 20 disposals, Stanley produced one of his best games for the season – picking up 28 touches, 10 marks, six Rebounding-50s and three clearances whilst keeping Norm Smith Medallist Lenny Hayes to just 22 disposals. 

A working class performance from the blue-collar midfielder, Stanley told goldcoastfc.com.au after the match that the GC SUNS inability to hit targets cost them in the end. 

“To their credit they came out strong and in that second quarter they were simply too good for us,” Stanley said.

“We weren’t on our game at all, it was probably our most disappointing game for the season,”

The Saints finished leading every major statistical count, including contested possession (127-107), clearances (32-20), disposals, (418-332) and tackles (43-27).

But it was their constant delivery in attack which punished the GC SUNS, the Saints going inside-50, 63 times to the GC SUNS 35. 

The Gold Coast will take on Greater Western Sydney in what will be both teams final hit-out of 2013. 

Stanley said the playing group was intent on finishing the season on a good note”

“We capitalized on the momentum we created at the end of last season and have really moved forward a lot this year.”

“Internally, we still want to finish the season off strong and celebrate another win in front of our home supporters,” he said.

“I am sure they’ll come out for our final match and help cheer us on as we look to get over the line against the Giants.”