Pressure on the ball carrier, nullifying the Suns ‘beacon’ and ensuring the game is payed at a high tempo will be key factors when Essendon takes on Gold Coast, according to Bombers champion Scott Lucas.

Both sides have made significant changes to their line-ups for a match the Dons hope will keep alive their finals dream, while the Suns will be chasing an uplifting win nearing the end of the season.

Lucas said the Bombers ability to move the ball quickly and kick to isolated targets inside the forward 50 will be pivotal.

“Despite Steven May being a great defender, he doesn’t have a lot of help down there,” he said.

“So with Joey, Stewart and Hooker – they’ve got some height down there that can exploit them.

“If they can move the ball quickly, they should be able to get some good one-on-ones with a real height advantage.

“Ablett, Lyons and Witts are out at the minute so with Merrett and Bellchambers back in that strength of midfield (provides) a real opportunity to get the clearances, get the ball going their way and really lock it in.”

With the Suns missing several players, including key defender Rory Thompson, Lucas said May will play a key role in defence.

“Steven May stands out as that beacon down back,” Lucas said.

“He is the General of the backline and is able to lay off and help out his other defenders in the air.

“The Bombers need to be mindful of that, lower their eyes and spot up some shorter targets.

“If they continue to bomb the ball long all day, that will really fall into Steven May’s hands.”

The Bombers are the number one first quarter team in the competition, having won 14 of their 20 opening terms.

But the Suns aren’t far behind with 12 first quarter wins.

The drop off occurs in the last quarter where the Dons have won ten last terms, to the Suns three.

“It’s a game where if the Bombers keep the tempo up, and that running power in the game … it’s an area Gold Coast can tire in and allow the Bombers to exploit them,” Lucas said.

“Gold Coast can turn the ball over, so if the pressure is up then there is a real chance to score off turnover for the Bombers.”