Suns keeping their Witts about them
of a pretty good seven weeks before that,” Witts said.
“For us it’s about getting it going forward out of the middle and that way we give ourselves a chance for some positive territory.”
The 24-year-old has had no trouble getting his hands to the ball first at stoppages, helping the Suns win the hitout battle in all but two games this year.
Witts is rated elite by Champion Data in both hitouts to advantage (12.1) and getting the ball to his teammates hands (17 per cent).
Despite winning the hitout count 54-16 against a Mel- bourne team without ruckman Max Gawn last weekend, Gold Coast trailed in the clearance department 37-35 in a sign they aren’t taking advantage of Witts’ form.
Witts said it was up to him to get it to Gold Coast hands today at Metricon Stadium against an Eagles side that may throw defender Eric Mackenzie into the ruck.
“We didn’t get enough bang for buck (against Melbourne),” Witts said.
“I was able to get some clean (hit-outs) there so my role is trying to give midfielders first use. We have to make the most of it.”
It has taken Witts five season to reach 50 games. He broke through with a 20game year for Collingwood in 2014 before having his gametime restricted as the club opted for Brodie Grundy.
Witts said it provided a time for reflection as he looks to continue to play regular football at the Suns.
“It’s good to get the continuity and be able to play 10 games straight,” Witts said.
“The goal is to play every game and make sure my body’s right to be able to do that. I have to make sure my form as well is keeping me in that No. 1 spot.”