With the boys from the Glitter Strip returning to Docklands to take on Carlton, another fast start at the venue would be ideal according to stand-in captain David Swallow.

In their two games at Etihad Stadium in 2014, the Gold Coast SUNS have started explosively against their opposition. The team kicked seven goals to one in the first stanza against the Kangaroos in Round 7 and followed that effort up with eight goals in the opening term against St Kilda in Round 9.

“We’ve started well the two times we’ve played there this year,” Swallow said.

“So we’ll bring that same intensity we brought against the Saints last week and hopefully start well again.”

Swallow was battling to be fit for the game, but passed a fitness test at Metricon Stadium on Friday morning with flying colours to ensure he’ll take his place in the starting line-up.

“Yeah, leg feels alright so got through the training session which is good news,” he said when asked about the injury.

“It’s been a light couple of weeks. Obviously hurt the calf in the first quarter on the weekend but it’s pulled up well so looking forward to taking on Carlton.”

The SUNS young midfield group will go head-to-head with a classy Carlton outfit featuring the likes of Marc Murphy, Bryce Gibbs and dual Brownlow medallist Chris Judd and winning the contested football count will be crucial to Gold Coast’s hopes of registering an important victory.

“I think we’ve gotta beat them in the contest to start with,” Swallow told SUNS TV.

“Then obviously shut down a few of their key players and try get the footy to some of our runners in Harley (Bennell) and those likes.

“The boys had a good week on the track and I think we’ll get the job done.”

The 21-year-old midfielder will lead the team out onto Etihad Stadium tomorrow and admitted it’s a “nice honour” to be captain for the first time against the Blues.

“(It’s a) bit of a privilege. Like the other boys, it’s just the rotation policy so hopefully I can do my bit.”