The Gold Coast SUNS were outplayed in the NEAFL at Blacktown on Saturday, going down to Sydney University who has jumped into the top six. 

With their season on the line, the Students set the tone early and led from start to finish for the important 14.6 (90) to 6.4 (40) victory. 

Sydney Uni got out to a quick lead, booting the first five goals of the game before SUNS Academy member Matthew Conroy set up Gold Coast’s first major late in the first quarter. 

The scoring dried up slightly in the second as a Connor Nutting major reduced the margin to 23 points after 10 minutes, but back-to-back goals from Students spearhead Tristan Davies saw the home side march into half-time with a 35-point lead.

From there, the Students continued to apply scoreboard pressure and capped off a four-quarter performance with 4.0 to 2.1 in the last to secure victory off the back of a draw against Canberra last week. 

Gold Coast had their opportunities but struggled to convert, having four more inside 50s that Sydney Uni but produced just 10 scoring shots to 20.

Highly-rated SUNS academy member Connor Budarick led the disposals with a team-high 22, while Corey Ellis (17 disposals), Michael Selsby (18), Jez McLennan (17) and George Horlin-Smith (18 plus two goals) were among the best players.

The SUNS’ fight for a spot in the top six intensifies as they head to the Gabba to take on the undefeated Brisbane next weekend.

Sydney University v Gold Coast SUNS at Blacktown International Sportspark

FINAL SCORE:

SYDNEY UNI 5.3 7.5 10.6 14.6 (90)
GOLD COAST 1.0 2.0 4.3 6.4 (40) 

GOALS:

Sydney Uni: H Morrison 4 J Stern 3 T Davies 2 N Foster J Hiscox A Lucy J Bartholomaeus W Sierakowski. 

Gold Coast: G Horlin-Smith 2 P Wright 2 M Conroy C Nutting.

BEST:

Sydney Uni: N Reinhard J Bartholomaeus L Stevenson B Stewart J Stern H Morrison.

Gold Coast:C Ellis M Selsby C Budarick J McLennan G Horlin-Smith.