Brisbane Lions – 3rd on the ladder (5–1–1)
The Brisbane Lions are performing strongly, currently sitting in third place on the Smithys VFL ladder. They've showcased resilience, particularly in their narrow 14.11 (95) to 14.9 (93) victory over the Gold Coast SUNS in the Round 6 QClash, highlighting their ability to close out tight games. Highlights here.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Ben Hudson, the Lions have been bolstered by a mix of seasoned VFL players and promising talent from their academy. Notable inclusions like Dan Annable and Fergus McFadyen have added depth to the squad, aiming to push for a finals berth.
The Lions head into Round 9 this weekend after a week off. They’ll be hoping to build on their last performance which saw them take care of North Melbourne by 27 points at Arden Street Oval in Round 7.
With three debutants in the side, the Lions led from the first bounce to the final siren—running out 13.14 (92) to 9.11 (65) winners—thanks in part to three goals from first-gamer and Youi Brisbane Lions Academy product Jake Fazldeen, who helped extend their winning streak to four straight games.
Southport Sharks – 4th on the ladder (4–2)
The Southport Sharks are in solid form, occupying fourth place with a 4–2 record. They were back on the winners list on the weekend, defeating Casey by 41 points at Casey Fields on Saturday. The win marking the first time that Southport have ever defeated Casey.
With a strong defensive lineup and effective midfield rotations, the Sharks are positioning themselves as strong contenders for the finals, aiming to build on their current momentum.
This Saturday they host Frankston at Fankhauser Reserve, at 12:05pm for Sir Doug Nicholls Round.
Gold Coast SUNS – 14th on the ladder (2–4)
The Gold Coast SUNS currently sit in 14th place on the VFL ladder with a 2–4 record. This weekend, they head into Round 9 following a tough 84-point defeat at the hands of the Box Hill Hawks in their return to People First Stadium.
Coming off their third bye of the season and missing several players due to AFL selection, the SUNS struggled to find cohesion. The lack of continuity showed, particularly in the second half as Box Hill took control of the match.
Ahead of Round 8, SUNS Development Coach, Hugh Greenwood, acknowledged the impact of the interrupted schedule.
“As a team, it’s definitely been challenging to build synergy, but I really feel for the players,” Greenwood said.
“Our VFL guys are pushing for AFL selection and trying to build form, but most haven’t been able to play more than three consecutive games. That lack of consistency has made it tough.
“We’ve reflected as a group, and while our record (at the time) is 3–2, we’ve actually won 15 of 20 quarters. So we are playing good footy — it’s just the inconsistency that’s been the issue, which probably mirrors how the season has gone overall.
“Lots of clubs face similar challenges, but the attitude and effort from our players has been outstanding. Despite the disruptions, injuries, and constant changes, they’ve shown great character. Hopefully, that effort will continue to translate into AFL opportunities.”
The SUNS will travel south this weekend to face the Sandringham Zebras, who have only registered one win so far this season and sit in 20th place.
