What went wrong for the Suns this year and how 2027 can be much better
Gold Coast went from a maiden finals win last year to sliding down the AFL ladder, but a drought-breaking win in wintry Canberra offered signs of a brighter outlook for 2027.
The Gold Coast Suns experienced a tumultuous season, culminating in a final win against the GWS Giants. As the team exited the arena, relief and excitement were palpable. This victory not only ended their season but also dealt a significant blow to their rivals, the Giants. The Suns' coach, Damien Hardwick, acknowledged that the year was far from ideal, noting that it was not his best performance as a coach.
However, the win provided much-needed momentum heading into 2027. The team's performance in 2026 raised questions about the effectiveness of their playing style, which was more akin to a stoppage game than the dominant defensive style of their predecessors. Hardwick recognized the need for adaptation, particularly in balancing their handball-heavy approach with more traditional stoppage game tactics.
The team's success in the wet weather game in Canberra highlighted their adaptability and surge mentality. As the Suns look ahead, they acknowledge the importance of evolving their strategies to remain competitive in the ever-changing landscape of elite football.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
