The Gold Coast SUNS banked another valuable hit-out ahead of Round 1, defeating the Brisbane Lions by two points, 7.5 (47) to 7.3 (45), in Sunday's AFLW match simulation at People First Stadium.
The SUNS made the perfect start, piling on three goals in the opening six minutes to take early control.
Anne Hatchard and co-captain Lucy Single once again led the way around the contest, combining composure with elite decision-making through the midfield. Each kicking a goal, the experienced duo set the tone early for the SUNS.
Young star Sunny Lappin continued her impressive pre-season, spending extended minutes through the midfield. Using her speed to burst from stoppages, she worked tirelessly in both offence and defence, while her composure and clean skill execution produced another eye-catching display.
Gold Coast's ball movement was a standout throughout the evening, with the playing group showing a willingness to take the game on.
StreetSmart SUNS Academy graduate Ava Usher continued to build confidence with valuable midfield minutes, using the ball cleanly, providing plenty of drive through the corridor and capping off her night with a major.
Down back, Annabel Kievit was once again strong and composed alongside hopeful Round 1 debutant Georja Davies, who seamlessly rotated between the backline and ruck. Davies showcased her versatility, impacting both in the air and at ground level, taking several strong marks while covering the ground well.
Returning after an extended stint on the sidelines, Daisy D’Arcy looked as though she had never been away, providing her trademark run off half-back and using her lethal left boot to damage offensively.
Up forward, Havana Harris presented strongly in the air, taking several influential marks, while Heidi Talbot's relentless forward pressure and pace created opportunities inside attacking 50 and kept the Lions' defenders under constant pressure.
The SUNS will now look to build on Sunday's strong performance as they prepare for Round 1 of the 2026 NAB AFLW season, facing the Western Bulldogs at People First Stadium next Saturday night.
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Goals: Single, Talbot, Harrington, Hatchard, Usher, Welsh, Baron
