GOLD Coast hopes to shape the format of the final eight after showing improvement for the second game in succession.
With coach Rodney Eade pleased with the performance against Hawks and, for one of the few times this season, no injuries coming from the game, beating the Suns has suddenly become more difficult.
They play St Kilda at home next week before games against four teams – Western Bulldogs, Melbourne, Greater Western Sydney and Port Adelaide – fighting for top-eight spots.
"Once we get some players back, we can hopefully make some inroads with wins," Eade said.
The Suns hope Callum Ah-Chee, Jack Martin and Kade Kolodjashnij will be available for selection after missing this week through injury, while Adam Saad is a fortnight away.
Eade said he was relatively pleased with the performance although they wasted some chances.
"It's a big step forward but we can't be content with that," Eade said.
"There was growth in some players today so that was pleasing."
Five talking points: Hawthorn v Gold Coast
Tom Lynch was the most dominant player on the ground in the first quarter, defender Steven May was solid and Sam Day showed he is a rapidly improving big man.
With youngster Peter Wright emerging, the signs are good for the Suns in the key posts.
Eade said he was convinced that Lynch, Wright and Day could operate as a dangerous forward line particularly with Day showing the ability to pinch-hit in the ruck.
"Sam [Day] is a key player," Eade said.
"Sam can go in the ruck. I thought his work in the ruck was good when he did that in the second quarter. Sam is a different player to the other two. He has got real speed and adds a different dynamic. They can work together."
WATCH: Rodney Eade's full post-match press conference
He praised youngster Jesse Joyce, who had his best game for the Suns and said Gary Ablett was training and leading well and tracking towards his best form.
Eade said that despite the difficult circumstances the Suns had stuck to the task.
"Morale has been terrific," Eade said.
"The spirit among the group has really solidified. They are really strong together."
