Suns Shine Bright: Gold Coast Downs Melbourne for First Time in AFLW
Gold Coast Suns have secured a historic 22-point victory over Melbourne in the AFLW, marking their sixth straight win and bolstering their top-four credentials. The win, achieved in sweltering conditions, brings the Suns level with Melbourne at 7-2 with three rounds remaining.
Gold Coast Suns have made a significant statement in the AFLW, securing a historic 22-point victory over Melbourne, which has all but cemented their top-four spot. The Suns notched their sixth consecutive win on a sweltering Saturday night at Mackay's Great Barrier Reef Arena, downing the Demons 9.7 (61) to 5.9 (39).
This win marks a turning point for the Suns, who had previously struggled against Melbourne, failing to secure a victory in their four prior encounters since joining the women's competition in 2020.
"It's been a long few years for us and we've been slowly building every year," Suns co-captain Lucy Single said. "So to kind of get that win under our belt has been so awesome and I think that's really boosted our confidence."
The Suns now sit comfortably with a 7-2 record, level with Melbourne, and are well-positioned with three rounds remaining before the finals. The match began with Melbourne taking a narrow three-point lead in the first quarter, but Gold Coast surged ahead in the second term and maintained their lead.
Midfielder Charlie Rowbottom was instrumental, achieving a game-high 33 possessions and six clearances. Forwards Ava Usher, Mikayla Nurse, and Havana Harris each scored two goals, contributing significantly to the win.
Usher, a first-year player for the Suns, reflected on the challenging conditions but emphasized the team's adaptability.
"We knew it was going to be a really tough arm-wrestle and in the end we just got over the line in really hot conditions,"she said.
"We're pretty used to it."
In other matches, Adelaide secured a crucial 32-point victory over Richmond, with a score of 9.8 (62) to 4.6 (30) at Princes Park. This win brings the Crows back into contention for the finals, now at 4-5.
Crows captain Ebony Marinoff had a standout performance, collecting 40 disposals, 13 tackles, and a goal.
"I'd be lying [to say] we didn't know what was on the line tonight,"Marinoff stated.
"But really proud of the girls' efforts just to really start well … because we hadn't over the last fortnight."
Geelong also enjoyed a significant win, taking top spot temporarily with a 63-point victory over GWS at Kardinia Park. Jacqueline Parry and Aishling Moloney each kicked four goals in the match.