The Gold Coast Suns secured a dramatic victory over Collingwood, winning by just six points in a nail-biting contest that left fans on the edge of their seats. The final score was 10.9 (69) to 8.15 (63). A surprise entrant for the walk-off win, it was Anderson’s incredible game-winner that has since been dubbed the moment of the tournament.
Saturday’s game at Metricon Stadium may well have been the beginning of the Suns’ sequel, as Gold Coast showed remarkable guts and talent in trying conditions. The team lost Touk Miller to a hamstring injury early in the second term, putting additional pressure on the remaining players. What an incredible comeback from the Suns! Anderson was up to the task and fired through a brilliant goal from range to put them nine points clear with just ten minutes remaining.
Anderson put on an electrifying performance, reenergized by the support of his teammate Matt Rowell. Rowell continued his amazing form with 32 disposals, two goals, 13 tackles and 12 clearances. Rowell’s presence in the midfield was crucial in maintaining Gold Coast’s momentum throughout the match.
Josh Daicos was equally effective for the Pies, going toe-to-toe with Rowell with 32 touches, booting two majors. John Noble backed up his backline with 30 disposals, including a defensive masterclass that kept his side in the fight despite a disappointing defeat.
Gold Coast’s defense faced scrutiny earlier in the season, but Mac Andrew silenced critics with a steadfast performance against Collingwood’s attacking threats. His willingness to go to battle on the defensive end allowed the Suns to hold onto their lead through the critical stretches of the game.
The game swung back and forth, with Collingwood star Jamie Elliott kicking three goals to ensure his side was always in the contest. Despite four goals from their star forward Tim Membrey, including two in the final quarter, Collingwood couldn’t hang on for the win. Late in the third quarter, Steel Sidebottom committed a significant turnover by dropping a diving mark attempt. This misstep added to the sense of drama in those final minutes.
With just ten minutes to go, substitute Ben Long scored Gold Coast’s third, putting the result beyond doubt as the clock wound down. Anderson’s subsequent goal capped off an impressive sequence of play that cemented the Suns’ position as contenders in this tightly fought encounter.
“(It was) a set-play, but to have the guts to call it and execute it — that was huge,” – Kate McCarthy
Though defeated, Collingwood battled magnificently in a display of character and resolve. Now, they need to reconnect with their home court after losing Jeremy Howe to a groin injury during the game. The defeat serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of AFL football and highlights the Suns’ potential as they continue to grow as a team.
