By Michael Whiting
Gold Coast SUNS assistant coach Shane O'Bree has brushed off the tanking debate, insisting the 17th-placed SUNS are trying to win every game they play.
In the next fortnight the SUNS play Melbourne (16th) and GWS (18th) in matches that will almost certainly determine the order of draft selections in November.
But despite the tanking debate rearing its head again after comments by former Demon Brock McLean earlier in the week, O'Bree said the SUNS were not bothered.
O'Bree said the SUNS would be doing everything possible to continue their strong form of the past month and win both games in the next two weeks.
"Obviously we want to win this week," O'Bree said, before adding the SUNS would not win or lose because of media speculation surrounding tanking.
We go out to try and win every game. McLean said on Monday night he was uncomfortable with how Melbourne approached games late in 2009 – a season they finished last and chose first at the following draft.
Melbourne has subsequently been in the spotlight all week.
O'Bree said he expected the Demons to respond by coming out firing on the field.
"Early on I reckon the heat's going to definitely be on," he said.
Melbourne's had a big week so they'll be out to get on the front foot early, so we've got to meet them with the same intensity and pressure.The SUNS past month has been impressive with a win over Richmond, narrow losses to Geelong and the Brisbane Lions and a competitive half against the Swans last week before being blow away.
"We're really confident. Our form over the last five weeks has been really good. Even though we got a bit of a touch up by Sydney, we were in the game until half way through the third quarter so we've definitely improved and you can see the guys … slowly getting better every week."
O'Bree said the SUNS had to keep that standard against Melbourne – and that was a challenge for the young group.
"That's part of being an AFL footballer and these young guys have to realise that. You've got to do it week in, week out. If you drop off by a few per cent then teams can come out and beat you," he said.
"That's another thing our young group has to get used to is playing consistent four quarters and being on their game every week."
Campbell Brown and David Swallow (both corked thighs) will be given until the last minute to prove their fitness.
SUNS members and fans living in Melbourne, we would love you to join us after the game this Sunday for our post-match function, click here for details.
