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The Gold Coast SUNS will head into their season opener against the Adelaide Crows on March 31 full of confidence after a spirited performance against the Sydney Swans at Blacktown.

GC SUNS coach Guy McKenna praised the Swans who provided his team with a great test.

"We're not going to get a better test than playing the Swans in wet and slippery conditions."

"We certainly played better football today, our effort was super, the boys really responded after two disappointing weeks."

McKenna was especially pleased to see the SUNS play competitive football for longer periods.

"Our ability to compete for longer was evident this afternoon and I really thought our guys showed they continued to learn from the last couple of weeks."

The Swans led by seven points after the first quarter despite landing just one goal from eight attempts while the SUNS kept the goal umpires busy slotting nine of their first 11 shots at the posts.

Exciting youngsters Daniel Gorringe and rookie Jaeger O'Meara, ensured the SUNS got off to a great start however it was the Swans who were able to keep pace with the Gold Coasters before kicking clear with three unanswered goals during the final five minutes of the encounter.

Captain Gary Ablett who again led the way for the Coast with three goals and his team mates will now freshen up before preparations get underway to tackle NAB Cup grand finalists the Adelaide Crows at Metricon Stadium on March 31.