DYANMIC forward Liam Patrick showed he hadn’t skipped a beat during his eight-week stint on the sidelines, marking an impressive return to football in the NEAFL for the GC SUNS against the undefeated Southport Sharks in their 29-point win at Metricon Stadium on the weekend.

The exciting goal-sneak was forced to wait patiently throughout the first half, but didn’t fail to disappoint against the NEAFL powerhouse after being injected into the contest at the start of the third quarter.

The Northern Territory product looked lively around goals after taking his renowned spot around the forward flank, and managed to finish among the side’s multiple goal-scorers.

Speaking exclusively with goldcoastfc.com.au after the match, a jubilant Patrick said it was great to taste competitive football after being closely monitored by the GC SUNS’ High Performance Team following his hamstring strain sustained during the Club’s pre-season campaign.

“Yeah it was great to get a bit of a hit-out and get a kick alongside the boys,” Patrick said.

But Patrick conceded he’ll need to gain more conditioning and match fitness through the NEAFL if he is to push towards building on his 11 AFL appearances.

“I would have preferred to have played four quarters of football but it was pretty tough – I’ll need to build up my match fitness but it was certainly good to get out there today.”

Gold Coast SUNS development/reserves coach Shaun Hart said Patrick’s long-awaited return had lifted the spirits around the playing group in the lead-up to their key match against the Sharks.

“It’s a great football story, it’s been a really hard road for him but he’s great for our group,” said Hart.

“Patrick’s athleticism and speed will be a great addition to the group – and he’s started to get back into his defensive workrate.

“He’ll probably get a bit of a rest this week given the NEAFL has a bye this weekend, but hopefully after another couple of weeks in the reserves he should be in a position to put his hand up for senior selection.”