A nail-biting fourth quarter between the NEAFL SUNS and the Aspley Hornets had hundreds of spectators at Aspley Park on the edge of their seats in the final minutes, but neither side were able to pull away with the victory as the Shaun Hart’s chargers recorded their first draw since their introduction to the interstate competition.
After a slow starting first period the Gold Coasters went on a scoring rampage after the quarter-time break, with the lead changing hands midway through the second term after an emphatic seven-goal haul saw the game shift in the SUNS favour.
A red-hot Nathan Bock tore through the Hornet’s defence in what was unquestionable his best overall performance since his return to the competitive football circuit, as the GC SUNS Vice-Captain finished with a game-high nine goals for the afternoon.
Bock kicked a bag of four majors during the Gold Coast’s scoring surge in the second quarter, prompting ex-Lions and dual-premiership player Robert Copeland to switch from the midfield into defence.
But the move did little to disrupt Bock’s flow inside-50, as the veteran swingman continued his exhibition in front of his cheerful supporters.
Unfortunately the Round 17 clash was soured midway through the second quarter, midfielder Kyal Horsley calling for immediate medical attention with what looked to have been a suspected knee injury.
The 25-year-old workhorse is expected to be sent for scans to determine the full extent of the injury.
The Gold Coasters will now begin their preparations for the UWS Giants, with the two AFL-affiliated set to battle it out at Metricon Stadium next week.
FULL TIME
ASPLEY 16.13. 109
NEAFL SUNS 17.7. 109
