Despite the absence of most of their prime movers, the Gold Coast SUNS secured the four premiership points over Fremantle at Metricon Stadium on Saturday.

After the 24-point win, coach Rodney Eade praised the young midfield and proclaimed the game was one of the best of the season.

"I thought our midfield really stood up; there were some great efforts today," Eade said.

"I thought that was close to our best win of the year, it was a great win."

Alex Sexton led an undermanned midfield in his first performance in the centre square with 26 disposals, eight tackles, seven clearances and a goal.

The Queenslander also registered a club record 14 inside 50s in his impressive performance.

 



Sexton was joined by a relentless Touk Miller who registered a game-high 28 disposals and seven clearances.

On paper, the side was lacking much of its experienced credentials but replacement skipper Steven May stood up to lead his side to the victory.

After showcasing the growth of his leadership in round 17 and leading into the Fremantle game, May once again let his actions speak with 24 disposals and 14 marks.

Up forward tall trio Tom Lynch, Sam Day and Peter Wright combined for 11 goals ensuring the effort produced in the midfield was evident on the scoreboard.

While all three provided strong targets inside 50, Day had one of his best games of the season, booting an equal career-high four goals to go with nine marks and four tackles.

Jesse Lonergan was another to received praise from Eade post-match for what was considered his best game of 2016, while Jack Martin and Jarrod Harbrow also added polish with Sherrin in hand.

Who gets your votes in round 18?

Vice-captains Tom Lynch and Steven May were tied on 24 votes apiece on round 18 with Touk Miller third on 13 votes. The result pushes Lynch even further in front on the overall leaderboard.

Round 17 v Bulldogs
Tom Lynch- 24 votes
Steven May- 24 votes
Touk Miller- 13 votes

Season Leaderboard
Tom Lynch - 293 votes
Gary Ablett - 207 votes
Aaron hall - 172 votes

Vote now in the 2016 Fans Player of the Year