5 AREAS WHERE THE GAME WILL BE WON

STATISTICS AREN’T EVERYTHING

The Gold Coast would appear to pose little threat when you look at their statistics this season with the club last in average marks (73.2) and marks inside 50 (8.1), 17th in disposals (326.9) and 17th in hit-outs (35.1). But the numbers are deceptive and come from a time of the Suns huge injury toll and early teething problems under coach Rodney Eade.

CAIRNS NO HAPPY HUNTING GROUND

The Bulldogs hold the wood over the Gold Coast at Cazaly’s Stadium following last year’s 13.16 (94) to 9.12 (66) win and have celebrated victory in four of the six games between the two clubs. Cairns is part of the Suns’ talent recruitment ground and the Gold Coast will be eager to reverse the trend. A win up there could help continue their push for success.

ABSENCE OF SAAD

The exact influence explosive defender Adam Saad has had on the Suns this season will be on full display today as the 20year-old watches from the sideline due to a groin injury. The AFL Rising Star contender, who boasts the team’s best disposal efficiency of 82.6 per cent, has been a shining light and his availability in all but one game so far has been great.

THE ABLETT EFFECT

There is no denying last week’s astonishing performance by the Gold Coast had a lot to do with the return of captain Gary Ablett. The Brownlow medallist recorded 31 disposals and three goals in a stunning return from injury and will only be better after an AFL game under this belt. He will be needed again if the Suns hope to record back-to-back wins.

RUN OF SUCCESS

The Western Bulldogs have won their past three games and are in contention for a finals berth if they can maintain a steady stream of points. But their most recent victories have been against the likes of Melbourne, GWS and a struggling Brisbane Lions and the Bulldogs haven’t been at their best in the clashes. The Gold Coast must exploit this vulnerability.