Where and when: Metricon Stadium, Saturday June 8, 4.35pm AEST
TV, radio and online: Click here for broadcast guide
What it means for Gold Coast: After losing to premiership fancies Greater Western Sydney and Geelong in the past fortnight, it's the first genuine chance for a few weeks to break a seven-game losing streak. A win would reinvigorate the SUNS as the second half of the season begins.
What it means for North Melbourne: Another chance to solidify the Rhyce Shaw regime. After taking over from Brad Scott as coach last week, Shaw got off to the best possible start with a physical, high-pressure demolition of Richmond.
The stat: Historically, Gold Coast has done as well against North Melbourne as it has against any other opponent. The SUNS have won five from 11 matches (a winning percentage of 45), which is identical to their record against Carlton. They are 3-3 at Metricon Stadium.
The match-up: David Swallow v Ben Cunnington
Two of the hardest men in the AFL should square off in the midfield. Cunnington (No.9 in the AFL Player Ratings) is ranked second in the competition for both total clearances and centre clearances and although Swallow (No.104) might not always be his direct opponent, the influence of both around the stoppages will go a long way towards determining the result.
It’s a big week for: Alex Sexton
After a quiet game by his standards against GWS, the SUNS leader will be looking to respond in a big way in front of a home crowd. When Sexton gets going, the team lifts around him. He averages over two goals per game at home this year and if he gets the chance, will be looking to get a few through early to get the crowd involved.
