SUMMARY
This was the scene of a terrible night in Carlton's history 11 months ago, and looms as more than a danger game this time around. Last year's 12-point loss to the SUNS led to the sacking of coach Brett Ratten, and while a similar result would have far less dire consequences, it would severely dent the Blues’ chances of making the top eight. They are fresh off a nail-biting win over North Melbourne though and have been highly competitive in most matches this season. Lachie Henderson looks good as a forward, while the trio of Eddie Betts, Jeff Garlett and Chris Yarran combined for eight goals against the Roos. The SUNS woke from a mid-season slumber at the weekend with a rousing win over Collingwood. With a midfield led by Gary Ablett, Jaeger O'Meara and Dion Prestia all in red-hot form, the men in the centre should go a long way towards deciding this one. Toss a coin.

WHERE AND WHEN: Metricon Stadium, Saturday July 27, 1.45pm

LAST TWO TIMES
R22, 2012, Gold Coast 15.8 (98) d Carlton 11.20 (86) at Metricon Stadium
R2, 2011, Carlton 26.15 (171) d Gold Coast 7.10 (52) at the Gabba

THE SIX POINTS
1. Gold Coast and Carlton last met in round 22 last season where the SUNS sprung a huge surprise with a 12-point victory. Tom Lynch kicked four goals and picked up the three Brownlow Medal votes.

2. Carlton has a terrible record at Metricon Stadium, formerly Carrara, with just two wins from seven games.

3. SUNS skipper Gary Ablett has taken a liking to the Blues over the years. Ablett has kicked 21 goals and polled 11 Bronwlow Medal votes from just 11 matches.

4. Carlton's last win at Metricon Stadium was in round one, 1992, when current president Stephen Kernahan kicked five goals in a victory over the Brisbane Bears.

5. Gold Coast is the worst team in the AFL this season for goal kicking accuracy, converting just 44.1 per cent of its shots. Carlton is successful 48.8 per cent of the time.

6. Two of the greatest players of the modern era will go head-to-head with Gary Ablett and Chris Judd facing off. Ablett is clearly ranked number one in the Official AFL Player Ratings, while Judd is ranked 16th despite a slightly down season.