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Suns Wobble to Win over Inspired Essendon

On Saturday, April 18, 2026, the Gold Coast Suns defeated the Essendon Bombers 119 to 110 before 19,039 fans in a tight AFL contest.
Essendon rallied twice to lead, winning clearances 37-29 against Gold Coast, building momentum after last week's drought-breaking defeat of the Demons that halted a 17-game losing streak.
Matt Rowell recorded 35 touches while Christian Petracca contributed 25 disposals and three goals; Touk Miller inadvertently collided with umpire Alex Whetton late in the second quarter, causing an apparent shoulder dislocation.
Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick expressed relief after the nine-point victory, as the Suns improved to 4-2 following two consecutive losses despite Essendon's impressive pressure.
Separately, the Western Bulldogs confirmed forward Sam Darcy will miss the remainder of the 2026 season after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

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PerthNow

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The West Australian

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Suns wobble to win over inspired Essendon

The Bombers threatened to pull off another boilover win, heaping pressure on Gold Coast's midfield before the Suns escaped with a nine-point victory.

2 days ago·City of Perth, Australia

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ESPN

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Suns hold on late, survive Essendon scare

The microscope remains on Gold Coast's rebuilt midfield despite the Suns escaping with a nine-point AFL defeat of the rejuvenated Essendon.

2 days ago·United States

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7NEWS Australia

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AFL umpire suffers shoulder dislocation in heavy collision

‘He’s in real trouble. Certainly in a lot of discomfort down here.’

2 days ago·Australia

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ABC Australia

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Suns hold off Bombers in thriller, Bulldogs star out for season

The Gold Coast Suns dig deep to hold off a confident Essendon side to win by nine points, while the Bulldogs' worst fears are realised. Follow live.

2 days ago·Australia

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WA today

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Brisbane Times

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AFL Saturday LIVE: Crows hold on over Saints in a one-point thriller after moving Dawson tribute

Adelaide Crows vs St Kilda Saints in round six of the 2026 AFL premiership season at Adelaide Oval at 7.35pm AEDT. Kayo and Fox Footy are broadcasting the match live. Follow this live blog for minute-by-minute updates, scores, results, odds, squads, injury updates and start time. Earlier Gold Coast Suns beat Essendon Bombers and Hawthorn Hawks beat Port Adelaide Power

2 days ago·Northbridge, Australia

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