No present for big Nic from Suns

THE Suns are out to spoil the 150th-game party for athletic West Coast ruckman Nic Naitanui in Perth tonight.

Naitanui has been in hot form for the Eagles this season since returning from a knee reconstruction.

Gold Coast coach Stuart Dew said it was vital for his team’s midfield to nullify Naitanui’s influence by reading some of his taps.

But he said his midfield needed to have a balance.

“Watching the hands (of Naitanui) is a key thing ... and watching where the bounce goes,” Dew said.

“It’s a bit like cricket – if you premeditate hitting over the bowler’s head, and then they drop it in shorter, you’ll be in a bit of trouble.

“We just like our players to play it on its merits.”

The Suns stayed in Perth this week after their 28-point loss to Fremantle last Saturday and Dew said it had been a good bonding experience.

Star midfielder Pearce Hanley (dislocated shoulder) is out for an extended period, with 20-year-old Jack Bowes named as his replacement.