SUMMARY
This QClash could more resemble a Survival Scrap as the Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast scrounge for a first-up win after nightmare starts to the season. Both Queensland clubs were thumped again last weekend to leave them languishing at 0-4 and the only teams without a win. The Lions are low on confidence and resemble the team that started last season 1-9 as opposed to the run-and-gun version that won six of its final 12 matches, while the Suns are a mile off the finals contenders they were tipped to be during the pre-season. Injuries to David Swallow (knee) and Nick Malceski (knee) have further depleted Gold Coast. Things can turn quickly in footy, and one outfit can get the ball rolling with a win on Saturday, but with no formline for either, it's anyone's guess who.
WHERE AND WHEN: Metricon Stadium, Saturday, May 2, 4.35pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R18, 2014, Brisbane Lions 16.14 (110) d Gold Coast 8.8 (56) at the Gabba
R3, 2014, Gold Coast 17.12 (114) d Brisbane Lions 9.7 (61) at Metricon Stadium
R15, 2013, Brisbane Lions 17.14 (116) d Gold Coast 12.11 (83) at the Gabba
R3, 2013, Brisbane Lions 13.16 (94) d Gold Coast 13.14 (92) at Metricon Stadium
R17, 2012, Brisbane Lions 8.11 (59) d Gold Coast 5.18 (48) at Metricon Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. The most recent match was arguably one of the worst for Gold Coast in its short history. The Lions dominated every category, including disposals (399-272), marks (80-33) and inside 50s (70-40). Tom Rockliff and Pearce Hanley had 47 and 45 disposals respectively.
2. Despite their poor start to the season the Suns have been impressive in the clearances, ranked first with an average of 46.5 a game. The Lions are 17th at 35.2 a game.
3. The Lions have won six of the eight QClashes, including three wins by more than 50 points.
4. Scoring has been a huge problem for the Lions so far, who are ranked last in the competition with 62 points a game. The Suns are faring marginally better, ranked 14th with 78.5 a game.
5. Winning the ball has been a battle for Gold Coast in the first month, who average 324 disposals a game (17th). The Lions are little better, at 341 a match.
6. Dayne Beams is on the way up, jumping to No.52 in the Official AFL Player Ratings. Beams started the year at No.104, but after averaging 27 disposals through four rounds is on the charge.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR …
Harley Bennell. With Gary Ablett, Jaeger O'Meara and now David Swallow all missing from the midfield, it's now time for the gifted Bennell to stand up. For so long one of the teases of the competition, the gifted West Australian will probably see more midfield minutes and needs to improve his production from the first month of the season to help the Suns get over the line. He's more than good enough if he wants it.
PREDICTION: Gold Coast by 11 points
