Gold Coast SUNS coach Guy McKenna has described the GC SUNS historic three-point victory over Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium as "a great shot in the arm" for the club in its first year of AFL competition.

After losing their opening three matches by an average of 93 points, the GC SUNS were far more competitive against Port, but still trailed by 28 points at three-quarter time.

But an amazing final quarter turnaround saw the GC SUNS boot six majors and hold the Power to a solitary goal, clawing their way back in a fairytale finish for their first-ever AFL win.

"A really pleasing effort from our players," said GC SUNS coach Guy McKenna.

"Slowly but surely, the boys are playing longer patches of good football.

"We are moving in the right direction."

Peter Badcoe VC Medallist Michael Rischitelli was clearly best-afield for the GC SUNS, chalking-up 31 disposals (20 contested) and booting two goals.

McKenna was quick to single-out that performance after the match.

"Today we showed that Gold Coast SUNS spirit - that never-say-die attitude. Michael Rischitelli probably summed that up for us today."

Young livewire Brandon Matera was also instrumental, booting four goals and gathering 21 possessions.

McKenna said he was proud of how Matera responded against the Power after challenging the young forward's desire during the week.

"Brandon Matera went for a couple of efforts last week that weren't in his usual attack on the footy," McKenna said of the 19-year-old.

"But today, he sets up Luke Russell and he ends up scoring the [match-winning] goal."

"That's the difference. That's the step in his growth and development. His next step is to replicate that."

While clearly pleased with the result, McKenna said the real delight was in overseeing his side's rapid maturity and growth at the elite level.

"I've got a job to do to develop these boys, make them grow into good footballers and good people," he said.

"Ultimately the club and the side is judged on wins and losses, but it's more about these boys developing.

"And today, they stood up."

Despite the stirring victory, McKenna revealed that changes to the team were still likely to be made, as list-management remained the priority at the selection table.

"We have to - it's not the win, it's the bodies," McKenna said. "That's the nature of the beast."

"We've got to get them through a season.

"Our list is young, there will be boys that will be rested win, lose or draw."

Gold Coast SUNS will face Essendon next Sunday afternoon at Etihad Stadium