Jack Hutchins is expected to be in the mix for senior selection in the early rounds of the 2013 AFL Season after a best on ground performance for the Gold Coast SUNS NEAFL team in their pre-season practice match against the Broadbeach Cats at Metricon Stadium on Saturday.

The fast-moving midfielder, along with a hard-working Jacob Gilbee, led the chase for the SUNS Reserves squad after having to overcome an early 19-point deficient early in the first quarter against the local NEAFL rivals.

Rookie midfielder Andrew Boston started the comeback for the SUNS after a 50m drop punt from a centre clearance found the goals for the former Broadbeach junior.

North Queensland prospect Josh Hall entertained the local crowd after a dazzling run from half-back along the boundary line, before finding Tom Nicholls on the lead.

Timmy Sumner sent an injury scare through the SUNS NEAFL camp after a sickening collison with an opposing player saw the former SANFL junior hit the ground hard, only to see the talented 19-year-old find his feet moments later.

Speaking exclusively with goldcoastfc.com.au after the match, GC SUNS reserves coach Shaun Hart said the local derby would give his growing squad a great deal of confidence heading into the 2013 NEAFL Season.

"It really was  a strong performance for the team considering only half the squad were SUNS listed players," said Hart.

"I thought (Jack) Hutchins led from the front, and certainly helped us get going after giving Broadbeach some early shots at goal... I'd definitely think he put his hand up to be in contention for senior selection."

Despite their omissions from senior selection, Hart believed promising youngsters Jackson Allen and Hutchins was impressive for the SUNS in their 21-point victory over the Cats.

"They got their hands on the footy down back, and Jack (Hutchin) even kicked a bag-full of goals for us in the end... so that wouldn't have hurt their chances earning a possible recall to the senior squad for the SUNS NAB Cup challenge next weekend."