The Gold Coast SUNS are set for Thursday Night Lights in Round 16 against the reigning premiers, Richmond.

The AFL has today finalised dates and times for Round 16 of the 2021 Toyota AFL Premiership Season, with the SUNS fixtured to take on the Tigers at Metricon Stadium, Thursday July 1 at 7:20pm.

GC SUNS Chief Executive Mark Evans said the club was excited for its members to be able experience Thursday night footy at Metricon.

“It’s a great opportunity to showcase the Gold Coast and the Gold Coast SUNS in primetime football on Channel 7,” Evans said.

“Our fans haven’t had the opportunity to witness their team in the AFL’s marquee timeslots in the past and what better way to do it than on a winters night at Metricon Stadium.”

SUNS Members and fans will be encouraged to get out and support their team in one of the club’s first primetime fixtures since its inception, outside of games during 2020’s ‘footy frenzy’.

“We want to encourage all of our members and fans to come out in force this Thursday night, proudly wearing their red and gold to support the SUNS.”

“As a club we’re on an exciting journey. Off-field we’ve smashed our membership record for the second year in a row and on-field the team is looking to really attack the second half of the season against some quality opponents.”

Due to recent border restrictions being lifted, Richmond fans will have the opportunity to travel north from Victoria, to escape the cold and enjoy the warmer climate and watch their team play.

In the midst of both Queensland and Victorian school holidays, Metricon Stadium will come alive with a host of kid’s activities confirmed, including carnival rides, laser tag and face painting, to add to the spectacle.

Members who have recently returned to their reserved seat will be able to access their ticket via the Gold Coast SUNS App 96 hours prior to bounce. All other members with match access will be able to redeem tickets from 12.00pm on Monday June 28 via Ticketek, with general public on sale at the same time.