THEY may be undersized and inexperienced, but Gold Coast is backing its back six to curtail Richmond's monster forward line at Metricon Stadium on Saturday night.
The Tigers are taking plenty of tall timber north for the round one match, with Ben Griffiths (200cm), Ty Vickery (200cm) and Jack Riewoldt (195cm) the key targets.
Carlton recruit Shaun Hampson (201cm) will also spend time forward when he's resting from ruck duties.
By contrast, the Suns are not only inexperienced – with Clay Cameron and Sean Lemmens to debut – but comparatively undersized.
First choice pillars Rory Thompson and Nathan Bock are unavailable after disrupted pre-seasons from hip and leg injuries respectively.
In their absence, the Suns will go with veteran Matthew Warnock (195cm), youngster Steven May (190cm) and Cameron (190cm).
Gold Coast development coach Andy Lovell said the Suns knew Richmond's tall threat, but was confident they could counter it.
"They're tall, that's a given. We know, we're prepared for it and we just have to back our boys in," Lovell said.
"It's been a consideration for us. It was a strong talking point at match committee that we've got some young players, debutants, playing in the team.
"At the end of the day what we've done is pick the team based on form and they've really earned their spot."
Lovell said Warnock had made a career of playing on bigger opponents, while Cameron had also proved during the NAB Challenge that he could do likewise.
Sam Day is also an option of switching from the forward line to defence if the Suns get overwhelmed.
"What's important is, it's the way the ball comes in," Lovell said.
"Our focus is around midfield pressure and making sure the ball doesn't go in lace out. It'll be a team effort in that regard."
Timmy Sumner has come into the Suns’ squad for Andrew Boston after an administration error originally had Boston included when the team was submitted on Thursday.
Lovell said Harley Bennell (calf) was recovering well and would be a strong chance to play Fremantle in round two.
