Gary Ablett's last-quarter goal was almost an exact replica of the most famous of his Geelong goals: a final-quarter snap against the Brisbane Lions in 2009.
Gold Coast coach Guy McKenna instantly compared the two in his mind as Saturday night's snap went through.
"When I say having a flashback [it was] probably more Gaz (Gary Ablett) having a flashback. I remember him kicking an arsey one on the rain – was that against Brisbane?" McKenna said.
A nod of the head from the champion standing beside the coach provided confirmation.
With that, McKenna was moved to suggest Saturday night's goal from Ablett in Suns' colours was better than the one four years earlier.
This time Ablett was under lights but the rest was the same. Pushed against the boundary line he had 45 metres between him and the goal, as he snapped the ball high into a swirling breeze.
As soon as it left the boot the football looked like it was being directed via a remote control handled by Maxwell Smart.
It hovered in front of the new Players Stand, as though it wanted to take some time to offer a thank-you wave, while it wobbled through the breeze.
Having drawn enough attention it then swooped through the goals to the applause of all in the ground.
It was a nice homecoming gift for the almost-prodigal son to offer to those who were once his adoring followers.
Geelong Chris Scott was not so much open-mouthed as near to devotion.
"The people in front of us stood up and bowed," Scott said. "I felt like joining in.
"If he's not the best player I've ever seen, he's pretty close.
"He does those amazing things. Twelve or 13 of his possessions tonight were just outstanding. I wasn't as interested in the other 20.
"But some of the things he does, you just can't stop, so you've got to say, 'Great player, great goal', and move onto the next contest."
Ablett seemed to find it harder to comment on the goal than kick it.
His modesty took over and he said he just ran back to the centre, hoping his team could force its way back in front.
McKenna knew how good it was but his final words explained his skipper's subdued response.
"It was probably regulation for Gaz," McKenna said.
