Plenty of home-grown stars shone in the Brisbane Lions’ 47-point win over the Gold Coast in Townsville yesterday.
Broadbeach product, and new recruit, Luke McGuane was impressive, among 10 first-choice players who returned to the Lions team, leading Brisbane to a 1.14.13 (106) – 0.8.11 (59) win at Tony Ireland Stadium.
Mcguane kicked three first-quarter goals, in his first game for Brisbane, and giving the Lions a crucial start.
Fullback, Southport’s Daniel Merrett, was another Queenslander from the Lions’ top 22 who returned in Townsville, adding some valuable leadership to Brisbane’s back six.
Enigmatic forward, and another Gold Coaster, Dayne Zorko kicked the only super goal of the match, and displayed his strong forward pressure.
Morningside’s Jordon Bourke, continued to show potential in defence, with a solid game on SUNS captain, Tom Lynch.
Labrador’s Claye Beams started strongly in his first game in 10 months, after a knee reconstruction, finishing with 14 touches and laying a solid foundation for his senior selection prospects.
Mt Gravatt’s Clay Cameron has put himself right in the frame for GC SUNS’ senior selection, with another incredible defensive display.
After an injury-riddled start to his career, the 2012 draftee’s pre-season has gone off without a hitch, and SUNS coach for the game, Dean Solomon, praised his one-on-one efforts against the Lions’ Michael Close.
Cairns’ Jarrod Harbrow continued his good pre-season form against the Lions, running well both ways with 14 disposals and nine tackles in the game.
Jackson Allen was good in his first senior match of 2014, with 17 disposals, while former Redland player, Charlie Dixon produced an improved performance in his second outing.
Karmichael Hunt played his first senior match of 2014, while Townsville’s Josh Hall was serviceable at his home ground.
Alex Sexton will be looking to build on his first competitive hit out, having a quiet game against the Lions.
The SUNS were missing captain, Gary Ablett, vice-captain Michael Rischitelli, as well as a host of regular senior players in the match.
