For the first time in the Club’s short history, the Gold Coast SUNS have named an unchanged line-up to take on Melbourne at Metricon Stadium this Saturday, a night the team celebrates Gary Ablett’s 250^th match. 

GC SUNS General Manager of Football Operations – Marcus Ashcroft, told goldcoastfc.com.au the team would remain unchanged heading into the Round 20 clash.

“We will go into a match for the first time unchanged this week and that is probably a combination of a number of things,” he said.

“Last week was a pretty even effort from our lads, and even though we didn’t come home with a win, the effort and intensity was there across the board. 

“We also don’t have too many guys who are coming back from injury this week, who are ready to play senior footy this week, and with the reserves having the bye last weekend, it was difficult for those players on the cusp of senior selection to stake their claims.

Having produced so many memorable moments for the club since his arrival, Ashcroft is hopeful Ablett’s team mates will give their skipper a milestone match to remember. 

“Gary has been an absolute champion for his team, our fans and the entire city,” Ashcroft.

“He has consistently set a new standard of excellence, and has done a fantastic job in mentoring our club’s emerging leaders.

“Hopefully we can give him a night to remember.”

David Swallow will play his 50^th AFL match, while Danny Stanley will also notch his 50^th AFL match with the Gold Coast SUNS (having played five with Collingwood).

“David and Danny will also be sharing significant 50-game milestones for the club, so it’d be great if we could celebrate a win with them also.”

ROUND 20 AFL Premiership Senior Team
B: T. McKenzie, S. May, S. Tape
HB: G. Broughton, R. Thompson, L. Russell
C: H. Bennell, G. Ablett, J. Harbrow
HF: J. O’Meara, S. Day, A. Hall
F: C. Brown, C. Dixon, N. Bock
R: D. Gorringe, D. Stanley, D. Swallow

INT: D. Prestia, A. Sexton, M. Shaw, T. Sumner

Emergencies: T. Murphy, J. Allen, A. Boston