History written in Gold Coast VFL darby, Woodcock named Gywnne/ Ives medallist

History has been written in round 8 of the VFL season, as Suns claim first Mackenzie Cup while Boyd Woodcock receives prestigious Gywnne Ives award.

The Southport Sharks came agonisingly close to a miracle comeback against the Gold Coast Suns in the annual Mackenzie Cup match at Fankhauser Reserve in round eight of the VFL season.

Southport put on an incredible last-quarter show to fall just two points short after trailing by 40 points at three-quarter time.

SOUTHPORT 0.1 2.4 4.6 10.14 (74)

GOLD COAST 6.2 9.3 11.4 12.4 (76)

It marks the first time the Suns have won the Mackenzie Cup.

Gold Coast SUNS VFL win Mackenzie Cup for the first time. 2023. Credit: Highflyer Images

The historic win also squares the ledger between the two Gold Coast clubs who have gone head-to-head twice in the VFL and now share one win a piece.

Southport coach Steve Daniel said his side’s never say die attitude makes it hard not to be proud of their efforts despite the loss.

“Of course we are disappointed we couldn’t win especially considering we gave ourselves plenty of chances.

“However, the Suns are on top of the VFL ladder for a reason, so to get within a goal is a great effort,” Daniel said.

Gold Coast SUNS win the Mackenzie Cup for the first time. 2023. Credit: Highflyer Images

“It’s frustrating but exciting to know we can match it with the best teams in the competition without winning.

“We will learn from it and let the sting of the loss fuel us in the coming weeks.”

Adding to Saturday’s atmosphere, Southport celebrated their 1983 premiership teams as part of their annual Heritage Round.

The Sharks’ best on the ground was awarded the Gywnne/Ives Medal as a part of the celebrations.

Jesse Joyce kicks for Southport Sharks. Credit: Highflyer Images

The award is named after two of the most important 1983 team members.

For his 37 disposals, nine marks and 10 clearances, Boyd Woodcock was named the Gywnne Ives Medallist and accepted the award proudly.

The Southport Sharks are set to jet to Melbourne for round nine where they will take on the Box Hill Hawks at Box Hill City Oval on Saturday at 12.05pm.

Goal Kickers: Jesse Joyce 2, Fraser Thurlow 2, Brayden Crossley, Tom Fields, Jed Foggo, Jye Lockett, Jack Sexton, Boyd Woodcock.

Best Players: Boyd Woodcock, Jesse Joyce, Daniel Charlesworth, Max Spencer, Zach Molloy, Jacob Dawson