WHERE THE GAME WILL BE WON

GARY ABLETT

No surprises here. The best player in the game returns from a shoulder reconstruction confident the joint will stand up to the rigours of senior football. The Demons are sure to test him out but they don’t appear to have the player to contain Ablett once he gets into his stride.

DEFENSIVE PRESSURE

The pressure the Suns apply when they don’t have the football has gone to a new level under Rodney Eade. Not allowing teams an easy escape from their defensive end is a hallmark of good sides and the Suns have made huge gains since they finished the season with 10 wins last August.

THE EADE FACTOR

History shows Rodney Eade gets the very best out of the teams he coaches right from the outset. There is a simplicity and honesty to his message and the Suns have responded under his stewardship

THE CHOKER HOLD

The Suns have built a tight back six around defensive pillars Rory Thompson and Steven May. Nick Malceski is all class, Trent McKenzie’s desire is apparent and Jarrod Harbrow, Kade Kolodjashnij and Adam Saad complete the package. The Dees are without Chris Dawes which means the Suns can turn the screws on first-gamer Jesse Hogan

CONTESTED POSSESSION

The Suns have already shown they can win the ball at the stoppage, just ask preseason opponents Geelong and Brisbane Lions who were belted in the middle. It’s how they deliver the ball forward that is crucial.