Three big reasons to Sharks surge

STEVE Daniel credits the resurgence of Southport’s three key trademarks for their ability to remain unbeaten from their opening two NEAFL games.

Southport were forced into a war of attrition against Redland on Saturday, bouncing back from a slow start to record a gritty win in what has been their best start to a NEAFL season since 2014.

“I thought our trademarks of aggressive, proud and disciplined came to the fore in the end to help us win,” Daniel said.

Southport trailed by three goals early after kicking four behinds and one out on the full.

Several times last season the Sharks raised the white flag in similar situations but after getting within nine points at halftime, Southport fought their way to a 13.10 (88) to 10.6 (66).

“We dug in there and we identified we were making mistakes,” Daniel said.

Co-captain Seb Tape, returning to the backline under Daniel, played a role in the first two goals Southport conceded but went on to be named best on ground after shutting down Redland forward Jackson Paine.

Gold Coast Suns beat Aspley 11.10 (76) to 8.8 (56) in their NEAFL clash at Carseldine.