SUNS SHOCK DISMAL SWANS
GOLD Coast have produced the upset of the AFL season, shocking Sydney by 24 points to snap an 11- game losing streak.
The Swans’ top-four hopes were dealt an almighty blow at the SCG yesterday, when John Longmire’s former righthand man Stuart Dew successfully plotted the downfall of his old employer.
TAB suggested it was the biggest AFL upset on their books since 1995, paying out $ 17 on a result few thought possible.
“I can’t believe it, to be honest,” Suns co-captain Steven May told Fox Footy after the final siren.
Gold Coast were minus cocaptain Tom Lynch and prime movers David Swallow and Jack Martin, but produced fierce pressure to record their first win over Sydney.
The Suns, who hadn’t belted out their song since April 22, withstood a final- quarter comeback to triumph 12.16 (88) to 8.16 (64).
Their ninth meeting with the Swans was widely expected to be a percentage-booster for the hosts, who were looking to cement their position in the top four. Instead, Sydney’s percentage dipped to 114.2, meaning they went down the ladder and handed fourth spot to Port Adelaide.
Swans superstar Lance Franklin was held goalless by Rory Thompson, while Aaron Young booted four majors for the Suns.
Gold Coast dominated the second and third quarters, kicking eight goals to zip. Sean Lemmens registered a behind early in the fourth quarter, lifting the Suns’ lead to 21.
Quick goals from Sydney’s Tom Papley and Luke Parker ignited the crowd of 32,565.
Dew had every reason to be nervous but Young’s fourth goal settled the visitors before Lachie Weller nailed the sealer.