Just over 2,000 passionate SUNS fans filled into the Southport Sharks today to watch the the GC SUNS in their final practice match of the pre-season.
Led by skipper Gary Ablett, who notched up 24 disposals, the SUNS managed to overcome a 21-point deficient in extreme heat and testing conditions that will likely give the growing playing group a boost of confidence as they prepare for their season opener against St. Kilda at Metricon Stadium on Saturday March 30.
Hall was among GC SUNS best-on-ground performers, finishing with 19 disposals and three goals which included a 40m run late in the fourth quarter where he found the goals after receiving the quick pass back from a leading Daniel Gorringe.
Post-match, GC SUNS senior coach Guy McKenna told reporters that he was thoroughly impressed with Hall's superb performance.
“I thought he was super,” said McKenna.
“His defensive pressure has been excellent throughout the NAB Cup tournament, and today he certainly got the opportunity to hit back on the scoreboard.”
McKenna believes it is a change in game-style from the 186cm Tasmanian that has propelled the speedster this pre-season, who was also among the GC SUNS best players in the side's 13-point loss to the Kangaroos in Round 2 of the NAB Cup.
“Defence comes before offense, and he’s learnt the art of that and is getting the rewards from it,” McKenna said.
“His ability to get up the ground and harass the opposition, but then to create space by doing that when going forward is certainly a testament to his strong pre-season campaign.”
With the GC SUNS now turning their attention towards St. Kilda, McKenna said the players would be managed and prepared appropriately heading into the premiership season.
“The boys will have some time off in the middle of the week and then they’ll come back so we can start zeroing in on St. Kilda,” McKenna said.
“We understand the challenge that is ahead of us… they’ve (St. Kilda) have cracked us a couple of times now by about 90 points so we have a lot of ground to make up.”
“The season really starts now, so we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
GOLD COAST SUNS 12.8. 80
Melbourne Demons 8.7. 55
