The sense of co-operation with the Gold Coast Suns was underlined by the peripheral players from both clubs playing match simulation on Saturday.

Because the Eagles had only 13 players available – and Jake Waterman had limited minutes as he was second emergency for the AFL game – the Suns loaned players to the Eagles.

Much like junior football with one team light on for players, a number of Suns rotated in and out of the Eagles line-up for a 16-a-side hit-out.

Coached by Adrian Hickmott the Eagles players searching for an opportunity in the AFL played with zeal and energy and if required will be ready for the call-up.

Forward-ruckmen Nathan Vardy and Bailey Williams provided targets up forward, while the defence contained the likes of Josh Rotham and Tom Cole, midfielders Brayden Ainsworth and Jamaine Jones were lively while Luke Foley pushed up the ground to play on a wing.

Experienced defender Will Schofield sat out as the emergency for the seniors.