Gold Coast Suns Make History: A Landmark Entry into the AFL Finals
The Gold Coast Suns have officially broken their 15-year finals drought, delivering a commanding performance against Essendon to secure their spot in the 2025 AFL finals series. This landmark achievement marks a new chapter for the club, igniting excitement among fans and setting the stage for a thrilling post-season.
Demolishing the Dons: A Dominant Display
The decisive match saw the Suns overpower an undermanned Essendon side with a final score of 23.15 (153) to 8.10 (58) at People First Stadium. The tone was set early, with Gold Coast kicking seven goals in the first term, laying the foundation for their biggest-ever victory.
Key performances fueled the Suns' historic win:
- Ben King was a standout, booting three of his seven goals in the opening quarter, bringing his season tally to a club-record 69 majors.
- Midfield maestros Matt Rowell (31 disposals, eight tackles, two goals) and Noah Anderson (34 touches, three goals, 12 clearances) delivered massive performances, showcasing their influence on the game.
This emphatic win not only secured the Suns' seventh-place finish—their highest ever on the ladder—but also knocked the Western Bulldogs out of eighth spot, reshuffling the AFL finals fixture.
A Long-Awaited Triumph for Gold Coast Football
Since entering the AFL in 2011, the Gold Coast Suns have faced a challenging journey, never finishing higher than 12th. This consistent struggle has made their maiden finals appearance a particularly sweet moment for the club, its players, coaching staff led by Damien Hardwick, and its dedicated fanbase. The victory against Essendon was not just a win; it was a statement, demonstrating the team's growth and determination.
What's Next for the Suns?
With their finals spot locked in, the Gold Coast Suns will now travel to Perth to face Fremantle in a knock-out elimination final next week. This upcoming challenge will test their mettle as they aim to continue their historic run deeper into the AFL 2025 finals. The team's current momentum and the confidence gained from their dominant season finale will be crucial as they prepare for the intensity of post-season football.
Key Takeaways
- The Gold Coast Suns have qualified for their first-ever AFL finals series after 15 years in the league.
- They secured their spot with a resounding 95-point victory over Essendon.
- Star forward Ben King kicked seven goals, setting a new club record for the season.
- Midfielders Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson were instrumental in the dominant performance.
- The Suns will now face Fremantle in an elimination final.