It was a gallant effort from the opening bounce for both NEAFL rivals, with the GC SUNS seconds locking horns with the Giants reserves to take a two-point lead heading into the first break.
But an impressive seven-goal second quarter paved the way for the Gold Coasters to record their fifth victory for 2013, with the visitors having all but secured the premiership points by the end of the third quarter.
NEAFL coach Shaun Hart was impressed with his side’s ability to back up their efforts against a quality NEAFL opposition, after their outstanding 79-point victory against Morningside last weekend.
“The boys played very well, their ability to win the contested football and really control the game for the majority of the contest was fantastic,” Hart said.
“The Giants produced a full squad, so it was a very good test for our boys.”
Whilst pleased with his charge’s ability to board the flight down south and win comfortably on the road, Hart conceded his side needed to continually make sure they didn’t take their foot off the petal after granting the Giants costly opportunities around goals.
“There were times were we did fumble the ball due to skill errors, and they made us pay on the scoreboard,” said Hart.
“It was only on the back of some of our own skills errors that we gave them an opportunity to get back in the game.”
Defender Seb Tape also made a strong return to the football field after his twelve month stint on the sidelines after rupturing his ACL against North Melbourne last year, and showed signs he may not be far away from a senior selection recall as he looks to resurrect his AFL career.
“He played three quarters and certainly did okay, there were numerous moments where he used his body terrifically in marking contests and got involved in the offense,” Hart said.
He got through, pulled up really well and did everything you’d like to see him do in his first game back.”
FULL TIME:
NEAFL SUNS 18.12 120
UWS Giants 14.7 91
