Gold Coast wary of poor returning record from Darwin

Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick says the club is better equipped to return from the Top End after a successful fortnight in Darwin.

In trips gone past, the Suns, who have won the past eight matches at TIO Stadium, have failed to replicate their breathtaking performance at their home away from home, struggling to reintegrate into football in other parts of the nation.

Carlton has gotten the better of the Queensland club following their stint in Darwin on the past two occasions.

But upon returning to Melbourne and the dreadful Marvel Stadium, Hardwick is confident that his men will continue their best-ever start to the season against St Kilda.

2025-05-25T06:40:00Z

Gold Coast WON BY 19 POINTS

Marvel Stadium

STK

61

FT

80

GC

#AFLSaintsSuns

MATCH CENTRE ▶︎

"History would suggest after the Darwin leg that we have struggled a little bit with regard to our performance afterwards," Hardwick said.

"But I think our guys are further advanced than what they were this time last year, with a greater understanding of what's required at the required times.

"Alex Rigby and his crew have done a great job of getting us fit, able and ready to go. And now it's up to us as a football department to make sure we perform.

"We've got a big challenge this week against the Saints at Marvel, who were really disappointed in their performance last week versus West Coast.

"We understand that Ross (Lyon) is an outstanding coach. They're well drilled. It's going to be a hard game contest-wise."

Hardwick also couldn't contain his excitement around draftee Leo Lombard returning to football after a long stint on the sidelines with a shoulder injury.

Lombard featured for the Suns' VFL side last week, collecting 15 touches, five marks and three tackles.

The former Richmond premiership coach said it wouldn't be long before the reigning Pick 9 would debut.

"It's probably not too far away," Hardwick admitted.

"We love what he brings. He's ability to go contest-to-contest. There's a reason we brought him into the footy club. He's combativeness and competitiveness.

"I don't need to see a lot to be honest. I can't wait to get him in. He's impatient. So am I."

Hardwick didn't stop there in saying that he believes Lombard is in the best 22.

"If I look at his potential, absolutely."

Supplemental Selection Period recruit Ben Jepson is deemed "20/80" to debut this week.