For the second consecutive week in a row, Gold Coast prevailed in a thriller in the Top End, having previously held off the Western Bulldogs by 10 points, only to keep Hawthorn at bay by eight points.
But Thursday's victory over the Hawks at TIO Stadium had an extra bit of feeling behind it, with one of the club's greats and future Hall of Famers, Touk Miller, notching up 200 games, joining David Swallow as the only other Sun to reach the feat.
Miller impressed in front of friends and family, slotting two goals from 22 disposals and eight clearances in his milestone match.
The Queensland club released earlier in the week a pre-game rev-up speech from Miller's dad, Wylie, which was utilised during the tight contest, according to coach Damien Hardwick.
"We did mention it," Hardwick said.
"We used a great line from his dad, 'all gas, no brakes', as inspiration.
"It's funny how the emotional connection can be of significant importance in a time of need. I thought our last quarter was very good.
"For the players to get up and drag themselves over the line for that special individual … it was quite a significant milestone."
Aside from brief periods at the beginning of the game and at three quarter-time, Gold Coast led for the entirety of the match, remaining in control of the contest.
From an individual perspective, Miller was joined by fellow on-ballers Noah Anderson (35 disposals, 12 clearances, three goal assists and a goal) and Matt Rowell (29 possessions, nine clearances and nine tackles), while John Noble and Ben Long were excellent performers.
The victory places the Suns second on the ladder with a game in hand, due to the Opening Round postponement that is now scheduled in Round 24.
TIO Stadium has quickly become a happy hunting ground for Gold Coast, turning the venue in the Northern Territory into a fortress. The Suns have won their past eight encounters there over four years.
Hardwick and his men will get a chance to breathe after two closely scheduled contests, playing St Kilda in nine days time at Marvel Stadium.
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