The QClash is one of Queensland’s hottest footy rivalries. The first edition saw the newly admitted Gold Coast SUNS claim bragging rights in an eight-point thriller back in 2011.

This year, the Brisbane Lions head to our home fortress with a piece of silverware, the Premiership Cup, adding a new level of spice to an already heated rivalry.

In an interview on Tuesday, Gold Coast SUNS midfielder Brayden Fiorini opened up about the Gold Coast SUNS performance over the season and says the side are excited about the challenge of facing the defending premiers.

Gold Coast go into Saturday’s clash with an 11 and 6 record following last week’s loss to Adelaide, currently holding eighth spot on the ladder.

“We love playing against Brisbane and they're obviously up the top of the ladder... the reigning premiers,” Fiorini said.

Last time these two met, the Lions took the spoils, but the Gold Coast SUNS are confident they can bounce back on Saturday.

Fiorini says the home crowd advantage will give the team confidence going into the match.

“What a better way to back up against the reigning premiers up in front of our home crowd. We can’t wait to respond,” Fiorini said.

The club’s last win against a top eight opponent came a fortnight ago when the SUNS defeated ladder-leaders Collingwood by nine points at home.

Fiorini says despite last weekend’s loss against Adelaide, the SUNS at their best can beat anyone.

Saturday’s QClash marks the 29^th edition of the contest, which the Lions have dominated in recent years.

“They’ve been a really good footy club over the last four, six, eight years. Obviously, they’re rivals so we’ll try to get one back. Both teams are in really good form,” Fiorini added.