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Today’s game would go a long way in determining the wooden spoon winner and which team would receive the number one draft pick as the Gold Coast Suns defeated the Brisbane Lions by 14 points.
The first quarter started with little defensive pressure. The Suns got out early with cleaner disposal and finishing. The Lions worked their way back with a greater work rate and held a slim lead at quarter time.
The Suns got a “Rocket” from coach Rodney Eade and scored the first of the second quarter. It was goal for goal as the game became more watchable but neither side could exert control. The Suns led by a point at Half Time.
>>MATCH REPORT: Lions set for spoon after Suns loss
Goal for goal continued in the third quarter. An exciting game emerged with the Suns kicking seven for the quarter and setting up a win.
As the game went on the Suns moved the ball in a more fluent manner. They continually scored goals on transition from a Lions turnover.
A good win in the finish for the Suns and bragging rights go down to the Gold Coast.
Aaron Hall was best afield. Playing through the midfield he had his best game as far as disposals go. Tom Lynch completely controlled the forward line and the Lions had no one capable of holding him. Brandon Matera and Jack Martin were two youngsters that the Suns would be happy with their development.
For the Lions Stefan Martin was the best ruckman on the ground, whilst Rockliff, Zorko and Hanley moved the ball through the midfield well but often let themselves down with the final kick.
The Suns record their 3rd win of the year and consign the Lions to the bottom of the ladder. The Lions may have a better chance of victory next week when they host Carlton.
SUNS 17.12.114 defeat LIONS 14.16.100
Will the Brisbane Lions get off the bottom of the ladder, or will the Gold Coast Suns avoid the wooden spoon when the two Queensland clubs meet in the Q-Clash? Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 4:15pm (AEST).
17th plays 18th and the importance of a win becomes very clear. Avoiding the ignominy of the wooden spoon is a priority, but the No. 1 draft goes to the bottom-placed side.
I’m not suggesting either side will deliberately lose for this reason, but the result does have massive consequences.
The Lions have won the last two meetings at the Gabba. This includes a big 54-4point win last year.
A side note to this clash, is that it is shaping as a job interview for Suns forward Charlie Dixon. The Lions are rumoured to be interested in recruiting him and a strong performance will add fuel to the fire.
The Suns other key big man, Tom Lynch, said this week that the Suns are keen to hold onto Dixon and he likes to play alongside him.
The AFL are using this match as a trial, with four central umpires. They are looking to see whether this improves performance and stamina in their umpiring group.
The Suns have missed big names all year, none bigger than Gary Ablett. To compound this they lose Rory Thompson to another injury, although they regain the experience of Michael Riscitelli to lead their young midfield.
The Lions have also been affected by injury, this week they are without Dayne Beams and Mathew Leuenberger, with Luke McGuane returning after a long absence.
Prediction
I am going against the odds and predicting a 40-point win for the Lions – they’re playing for pride and are due a win.
Will the Lions secure bragging rights for another 12 months, or will the Suns add to their draw last week and move away from the bottom of the ladder? Join The Roar from 4:15pm (AEST) for score updates and debate in our live blog.
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