A return to the winner’s list and a receding injury toll might see the Gold Coast SUNS make minimal changes at the selection table this week ahead of Saturday’s clash with the Western Bulldogs in Cairns.
 
Experienced utility Jarrod Harbrow is set to return from an ankle injury that forced him to miss last weekend’s 55-point victory over North Melbourne. Luke Russell was the only injury to come out of the game, with the wingman set to miss up to a month due to a fractured hand.
 
A number of strong performances in the NEAFL may force the hand of the selectors, especially given the outstanding effort against Sydney University in Blacktown - a win that keeps the reserves' finals hopes alive.
 
Wingman Matt Shaw returned to form in the reserves, collecting 32 possessions, 12 marks and six rebound 50s to put his hand up for a recall to the senior side for the first time since round seven’s loss to West Coast in Perth.
 
Sean Lemmens responded strongly to being left out of Saturday night’s game against the Kangaroos. The South Australian recorded a game-high ten tackles – four more than any other player on the ground – along with 22 disposals and five inside 50s.
 
Last year’s pick No. 8, Peter Wright, flexed his muscles against Sydney University, to produce the most influential performance in his time on the Gold Coast. Wright was dominant in attack, booting six goals from 19 possessions and clunking 12 marks.
 
With Charlie Dixon and Tom Lynch getting the job done at the moment in the senior side, it may be difficult for Wright to earn a recall, but he has done his chances no harm.
 
For the second successive week, Seb Tape was instrumental for Josh Fraser’s side and was named best on ground in the 15-point victory over Sydney University. Tape finished the day with 27 possessions, nine clearances, six tackles and six inside 50s to put his hand up for a return to the seniors.