GOLD Coast Football Club coach Guy McKenna has paid tribute to his players after securing a finals berth in this year's TAC Cup.
The GCFC will play in September after turning it on in the second half to comfortably dispose of the Bendigo Pioneers at Carrara on Saturday.

The Coast shook off a poor start to go and score a 12-14 (86) to 6-11 (47) win over the Pioneers.

It moved the Coast, who had other results go their way at the weekend, to fourth on the ladder.

Although they have two tough remaining games to finish off the home-and-away season they are back in with a chance of securing the double chance.

Vice-captain Charlie Dixon, who continues to improve every week, is a star on the rise and booted four goals for the home side.

Spearhead Matt Fowler kicked two goals, as did Todd Grayson - who was able to push up from the wing to boot a couple of goals.

Skipper Marc Lock, who recently signed a contract with the club, led from the front and impressed for the Coast.

While Alik Magin, Joey Daye, Tayler Rolfe and Nathan Spring were all influential.

It was not the prettiest day out for the Coast, but McKenna said he was proud of the boys for locking in the finals spot.

``For the boys they have come from all parts of Queensland, but they have come together to play for the Gold Coast Football Club,'' he said.

``It has been pleasing that they have really embraced it.

``To play finals football for these young kids I think is a great reward for their efforts.''

The Coast face a bigger test against the third-placed Gippsland Power at Melbourne's Princes Park on Sunday.

By Nick Smart. Courtesy of Gold Coast Bulletin.