It was described as an “unreal” feeling in the SUNS rooms following Sunday’s thrilling one-point victory against the GIANTS in Ballarat by young defender Jack Lukosius, but attention will quickly turn to the next challenge.

The SUNS kicked the last two goals of the contest is testing conditions at Mars Stadium before withstanding a late push from GWS to record the club’s first even single-point win.

After being bunkered down in Victoria since their last fixture – a win over Richmond more than a week ago – Lukosius said the win was reward for effort as the SUNS now return home to Queensland.

“We obviously had the win 10 days ago – long time between now and then but the boys put in the work and [I’m] so glad we got the result,” Lukosius said.

Traditionally blustery conditions in Ballarat weren’t friendly for defenders, but the SUNS back six stood tall without.

Charlie Ballard led all comers with nine marks and an incredible 15 intercepts, Jack Bowes racked up 12 intercept possessions to go with six marks while Lukosius himself took eight marks.

“We put in a good plan. At stages they got on top and we had to deal with that, but overall, we played a good game and got the result,” Lukosius continued.

“It was tough down there, especially in the last quarter.

“(The message from the coaches) Just soak it up, they don’t come around often these close wins. Enjoy today, enjoy tonight and then on to the next one.”

That next one is a test against premiership contenders the Western Bulldogs at Metricon Stadium on Saturday, first bounce 4.35pm.

Tickets for Saturday’s clash against the Bulldogs are on sale now.

“We owe them one after last time and the boys are on a bit of a roll so hopefully we can put in another good performance.”