Gold Coast has qualified for September action for the first time in its history, smashing Essendon on Wednesday night to claim seventh spot and eliminate the Western Bulldogs.
The Suns have been a part of the competition since 2011, but have never made the eight – until now.
It was a nervy wait after their loss to Port Adelaide but they annihilated Essendon 23.15. (153) to Essendon 8.10. (58).
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Noah Anderson of the Suns celebrates kicking a goal. Getty
It was over almost immediately, with the Suns bursting out to a 40-point lead at quarter-time.
They never looked back from there and the Bombers were never in the contest.
Essendon, who added two more injuries to their 16 existing ailments, will simply be happy to be done with a horrid 2025 season.
Todd Goldstein (concussion) and Matt Guelfi (cork) joined the injury ranks on Wednesday night.
Key forward Ben King had a career night, kicking seven goals on a depleted Bombers backline.
Ben King of the Suns celebrates kicking a goal with Sam Flanders. Getty
Star midfielders Noah Anderson and Matt Rowell also cashed in, combining for 65 disposals and five goals.
Meanwhile for Essendon, Archie Roberts finished with 29 disposals, as he presses his Rising Star award claims.
Veteran midfielders Zach Merrett and Dylan Shiel finished with 28, while Jye Menzie booted three goals.
Suns midfielder Touk Miller was ecstatic after the game.
“I can’t wipe the smile off my face,” he told Fox Footy.
“We’ve given ourselves a shot to win the flag and that’s all we can ask for.”
The result locks in the fixture for the first week of finals. The Suns’ loss to Port Adelaide cost them fourth spot, so they will now head west to take on Fremantle in an elimination final.
The result also confirms GWS will host Hawthorn at Engie Stadium.
Wil Powell of the Suns celebrates kicking a goal. Getty
FINALS WEEK ONE FIXTURE
Thursday night: Adelaide versus Collingwood (Adelaide Oval)
Friday night: Geelong versus Brisbane (MCG)
Saturday afternoon: GWS versus Hawthorn (Engie Stadium)
Saturday night: Fremantle versus Gold Coast (Optus Stadium)