In a gripping showdown, the Gold Coast SUNS emerged victorious in extra time, leveling the 2024 AFL Wheelchair Pathways to Care QClash series against the Brisbane Lions.
The win marked the SUNS’ first QClash series victory since the inception of AFL Wheelchair in 2022, adding significant weight to their triumph.
Game one saw Brisbane clinch a narrow win by a single point, setting up an epic clash in game two. The match did not disappoint, going into extra time with both teams fighting fiercely. The SUNS, led by Dan van den Hoek in the centre and captain-coach Tristan Orchard, held a couple of goal leads at each of the first breaks. Jace Tyler’s outstanding performance, finishing with 5.1, was a highlight.
Josh Boyle was a dominant force for the Lions, but his accuracy faltered, ending with 3.8. After halftime, captain-coach Michael Dobbie-Bridges, playing as a defender-mid, and dynamic key forward Zac Carlson, created considerable pressure on the SUNS’ defense.
As the final siren sounded, the SUNS were ahead by one point, leveling the series at one game apiece. The decider proceeded to extra time, with SUNS special guest coach, Noah Anderson, on hand to cheer home his team.
In extra time, Brisbane had several opportunities but managed only 1.4. Stephen French and Jace Tyler rose to the occasion, with Tyler’s decisive goals and Van den Hoek and Orchard’s midfield mastery securing a thrilling victory for the SUNS.
Final Score Extra Time: Gold Coast SUNS 11.7 (73) def. Brisbane Lions 9.14 (68)
