The Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast SUNS Academies are half way through their trial games to determine the Queensland Under 18 State Academy squad.
The SUNS took out game one Burpengary last Saturday, with the second game at Metricon Stadium this Friday at 4:30pm.
With 30 spots up for grabs, no one held back on Saturday.
The Lions started best, but the SUNS reined in the contest late in the first quarter to take a seven-point first change lead.
The second quarter was much more an arm wrestle, with both sides not giving an inch around the footy.
They kicked two goals each, meaning the SUNS were still up at the main break.
Gold Coast took advantage of the space of the Burpengary deck in the third quarter putting the foot down and opening the game up.
Brad Scheer’s three goals for the SUNS gave them a very handy last change lead.
To the Lions credit, after a few moves in the coaching box they fought back well in the last quarter. Nate Dennis was excellent in the ruck, and Connor Ballenden was providing a strong target in the arc, finishing with three majors.
The SUNS had done enough though, eventual 21-point winners, lead by Jacob Dawson, Brad Scheer and Brodie Foster.
For the Lions, Will Fletcher Nate Dennis, and Campbell walker all put their hand up with strong performances.
Now their attention turns to Friday.
It will be the last chance Academy members get to strut their stuff, so there will be a lot to play for.
Those who get the nod to pull on the Q jumper kick off their TAC Cup campaign on April 10.
Match Details
Gold Coast SUNS Academy vs. Brisbane Lions Academy trial match
4:30pm Friday March 11, Metricon Stadium
By Andrew Wiles
Follow @andrewjwiles
