The Gold Coasters jumped out of the blocks early against the Lions, applying immediate scoreboard pressure during the opening term.
Rookie-forward Josh Hall seem to thrive in the wet weather conditions, the former high jumper rising to the occasion in the centre circle in the absence of ruck-duo Tom Nicholls and Daniel Gorringe.
Hall winning a number of contested hit-outs and finishing with a game-high five goals for the afternoon.
Leigh Osborne has been lively across half-back Hart’s NEAFL squad in recent weeks while Jack Hutchins and Andrew Boston both shared the defensive role early on Lion’s star Todd Banfield.
Jacob Gillbee gave the local fans a reason to cheer and shout, with the exciting forward kicking an unbelievable goal along the boundary line to kick-start the SUNS superb second quarter performance around goals.
But it was Nathan Bock running out in his number 44 Guernsey that received the loudest ovation of the afternoon with the experienced utility unleashed into the contest after the half-time break.
It was a long awaited return to football for Bock after more than twelve months on the sidelines with a serious leg injury.
Bock wasted little time getting his hands in the footy, the former All Australian defender kicking the first goal of the third term with his GCSUNS team mates running from all areas of the ground to congratulate the Gold Coast vice captain.
With the polished performance marking the side’s third consecutive victory, NEAFL coach Shaun Hart told goldcoastfc.com.au his troops were beginning to bear the fruits of their fierce efforts around the contested stoppages.
“It was just a very good solid performance from our boys,” said Hart.
“We came here playing to win, and it was probably a two-and-a-half quarter effort where we showed really high quality football.
“The other quarter and a half we probably didn’t use the football as efficiently, but only the opposition can determine how well you can play.”
