The search is on for Gold Coast, who will continue to look for the players entrusted with filling the holes of two key players.
Aaron Hall and Pearce Hanley fell victim to a broken finger and a shoulder injury respectively last week, with their replacements not yet confirmed.
“They’re pretty fresh injuries, and it’s really unlucky for those two given they had really good pre-seasons and we’re just a week away from Round 1,” Suns’ defender Rory Thompson said.
“It’s still early in the week, so we don’t really know who’s playing yet, and as the week goes on, we’ll dig into a bit more detail.”
The Suns, who had a relatively good run with injuries before last week, have close to a full list to choose from, with just two confirmed outs and ruckman Peter Wright also unlikely.
“A healthy list and some competition for spots on the weekend is something that every club needs,” Thompson said.
“You don’t want it to be too easy to get out there, so unfortunately people are going to miss out, but it’s also really exciting that you’re going to have your best team out there each week.”
Despite equalling North’s amount of wins last season, Thompson says they won’t be taking their opponents lightly.
“It’s AFL football, every week’s tough,” he said.
“There’s no easy games, there’s no easy weeks, it’s just about having the same respect for every opponent we play.
“We’re going to prepare as well as we can, and hopefully get the four points.”