Key match-ups

Forward

Steven May on Joe Daniher

Midfield

Ryan Crowley on Gary Ablett

David Zaharakis v Michael Rischitelli

Defence

James Gwilt on Clay Cameron

Mitch Brown on Sam Day

Paddy Ambrose on Tom Lynch

David Zaharakis was prominent early for the Dons, picking up six possessions in the first 10 minutes of the game and kicking a goal.  He's up to 15 possessions at the major break.

Mark Baguley is picking up Gary Ablett when he goes forward, while Ryan Crowley takes him in the midfield.

Gold Coast recorded 10 of the first 14 inside 50’s of the match and 70 per cent of the possession throughout the first 12 minutes.

The Bombers started well in the second term.  They went at 95 per cent efficiency for their first 20 possessions and kicked two goals.  But the Suns wrested back control with three quick goals. 

The Suns forward pressure is causing Essendon turnovers with the Dons recording 15 clangers in the defensive half.