In a disappointing display for the Gold Coast Suns, the team fell short against their rivals, the Brisbane Lions, in the latest Q-Clash, finishing the match with a score of 9.12 (66) to 7.7 (49). Despite starting the season strong with a 5-1 record and a percentage of 150, questions arose regarding the quality of opposition they had faced. The highly anticipated clash against the reigning premiers was expected to be a true test of the Suns’ capabilities, yet they struggled to match up against the Lions, who have dominated the rivalry, winning 12 out of the last 13 encounters.
The match, played in wet and scrappy conditions, saw Brisbane’s attacking duo, Charlie Cameron and Callum Ah Chee, score six goals between them within the first three quarters, effectively sealing the victory early on. Despite a late effort from Gold Coast to reduce the margin, their struggles were apparent throughout the game.
Former Brisbane champion Jonathan Brown expressed his disappointment in Gold Coast’s performance, particularly at a sold-out Gabba. He noted the teams’ breakdown around stoppages, suggesting that while other teams had fallen victim to the Lions’ dominance, Gold Coast’s midfield didn’t rise to the occasion. He stated, “This was their first real test of the season,” indicating that the Suns would need to regroup and ensure this loss was not indicative of their overall capabilities.
Echoing Brown’s thoughts, Brownlow Medallist Gerard Healy remarked that this match represented a crucial moment for Gold Coast. He mentioned that while the Suns had enjoyed some notable victories, doubts remained due to the quality of their recent opponents. The Suns were notably outperformed in key statistics, losing the clearance count 47 to 26, and the contested possessions 147 to 121.
The match showcased the talents of Brisbane’s next generation, with brothers Will and Levi Ashcroft combining for an impressive 63 disposals, highlighting their ongoing contributions to the team’s success. Looking ahead, Brisbane will face North Melbourne in their next match, whereas Gold Coast has a looming challenge against the Western Bulldogs, which could provide them with an opportunity to bounce back from this setback.
Overall, the latest Q-Clash served as a wake-up call for the Suns, showcasing the challenges they face as they aspire to elevate their game to match the top teams in the league.