SUNS V PORT: FIVE THINGS WE LEARNT

1. PRESSURE FACTOR

Gold Coast’s ability to apply pressure has been an obvious improvement this season, but their ability to absorb it is becoming just as crucial. Port Adelaide crucified some chances but Gold Coast’s discipline and willingness to get extra numbers in defence stopped Power from breaking them down and applying scoreboard pressure.

2. WING FOR JACK

The shift of Jack Lukosius to the wing could be a smart move in the short term for both player and club. He uses the ball well and the position allows him to deliver accurate balls inside 50m, while the added running involved will mean Lukosius builds his tank quicker than if he was playing deeper.

3. HOMBSCH’S POINT

Jack Hombsch would have been

wanting to prove a point against a side he requested a trade from after moving outside their best 22 last year. Hombsch was outstanding at his old home ground, rarely beaten one-onone while providing an outlet and spoiling marking contests frequently.

4. BALLARD BOY

Charlie Ballard has been one of Gold Coast’s best so far this season. In just his second year of senior footy in the AFL, Ballard has taken full command of the space around him in the backline, takes important intercept marks and provides another tall defensive option for Gold Coast against opposition attacks.

5. DEW’S CONTRACT

Gold Coast have been in all but two of their opening nine games, an incredible feat from a side routinely put to the sword last season. If the Suns continue in this fashion, the club’s hierarchy should be looking at extending coach Stuart Dew’s contract beyond 2020. He is in the second of a three-year deal and the improvements the club has made during his tenure have been stark.