Greg Broughton’s stellar defensive performance against Richmond on Saturday was the defender’s best game in the red and gold colours, according to Gold Coast SUNS assistant coach and former teammate Dean Solomon. 

Finishing with an equal club-high 24 disposals and team-best nine tackles, the lively half-back demonstrated why the club was keen to snare the former Docker during the off-season – taking it right to the Tiger’s outfit, providing strong run and carry.

“Physically he was superb and showed some real intent and leadership, which is exactly why he was brought to the club,” Solomon said.

“All being taken into consideration, it was probably his best game for us.”

During his four year stint at Fremantle, Broughton rose through the ranks to become one of the competition’s most damaging defensive-stoppers – averaging 23 possessions in his debut season, including a career-high 37 disposals against Port Adelaide in the 2009 Premiership Season. 

Solomon, who played alongside the Gold Coaster in the purple haze, hinted to goldcoastfc.com.au that Broughton may have finally found his comfort zone a lingering foot injury ruled him out of action for three weeks mid-way through the season.

“It definitely looks as though he has got back to his physical best,” said Solomon.

“It was the best game he has played at the club, and although he made a couple of mistakes, he still showed how damaging he could be.”

Broughton’s versatility was on full display against the Tigers, the on-field leader refusing to take a backwards step, and eventually finished the contest having marked Jake King, Shane Edwards, Matthew Arnot and Dustin Martin. 

“I think by the end he handled six different blokes across our defensive structures,” Solomon said.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what he can produce against Collingwood this week.”