The Gold Coast SUNS have defeated North Melbourne Kangaroos by five points at Arden Street Oval this morning.
Five goals from Chris Burgess, including the sealer, has clinched a finals berth for the first time in the SUNS history.
In what was a seesawing match, the SUNS were able to keep their composure late in the game to extend their win streak to six.
James Tsitas opened the goal scoring for the SUNS at Arden Street, in a quarter where North Melbourne was able to gain ascendancy early.
The SUNS managed to find some rhythm and open up at 14-point lead by the break, thanks to two goals from VFL leading goalkicker Burgess.
Jack Bowes was impressive with 11 of his 31 disposals coming in the first term, along with a goal to set the tone for the SUNS.
The second quarter started brightly as Josh Corbett opened his account before North Melbourne took control.
The Kangaroos kicked the next four goals and led by 5-points at half-time.
Jeremy Sharp got his hands on the footy in the second term and would be one of the best on ground as he racked up 34 touches for the day.
With the equation for the SUNS clear, win and secure a maiden finals berth, the match went up a notch as the niggle around the contest began to increase to start the third term.
The Kangaroos kicked the first before the SUNS slotted three in a row, including two from Burgess to arrest momentum and the lead.
North Melbourne responded with two goals before Ned Stevens kicked his first for the morning and levelled the scores at the final break.
Oleg Markov provided plenty of run and carry off back and finished with 31 disposals.
Ned Moyle began to gain clear dominance in the ruck battle and give the SUNS midfield silver service at centre clearance.
The final quarter became a shootout as the SUNS and Kangaroos both traded goals early in the piece.
Goals to Matt Conroy and Stevens, saw the margin remain level with 10 minutes to play.
The contest remained fierce as the Kangaroos peppered but only for minor scores.
Burgess then dribbled one through from the pocket to seal a win and a spot in the finals for a SUNS.
The SUNS finals fixture is yet to be determined.
Gold Coast SUNS 4.2 5.6 9.8 12.10 (82)
North Melbourne Kangaroos 2.2 6.5 9.8 11.11 (77)
Goals: Burgess 5, Stevens 2, Conroy, Bowes, Corbett, Harrington, Tsitas
Best: Sharp, Bowes, Burgess, Moyle, Tsitas
