GARY Ablett says Gold Coast must stand up and win games like Saturday night's QClash against the Brisbane Lions if they are to be serious finals contenders.
For the first time in their seven encounters since 2011, the Suns will start favourites with the bookies to beat their Big Brother up the M1.
All pre-season Gold Coast has talked up its desire to make the top eight, and Ablett says it's time his side staked a claim with victory over the Lions.
When asked if the Suns needed to win matches such as the QClash in order to play finals, Ablett said: "I think so."
Since an incredible eight-point upset in the teams' opening derby three years ago, the Lions have largely dominated the fixture, winning the past five matches.
With a 1-1 record this season, Ablett says the Suns must take the next step.
"Obviously every game is important but they've won the last five against us, so it is important we go out and perform well," Ablett said.
"We believe if we play our brand of football and get those little basic things right that we're a massive chance of winning.
"We're going out there to win so hopefully we can get one back on them."
The "little things" Ablett referred to is being cleaner with the ball, organising defensive set-ups better and focusing for four quarters.
Gold Coast was admirable in a 48-point loss against Fremantle at the weekend, but was ultimately overpowered by the Dockers' bigger bodies.
The Lions will try the same again at Metricon Stadium, with Brent Moloney, Jack Redden, Dayne Zorko and vice-captain Tom Rockliff (returning from suspension) all capable of playing physically.
While the Queensland rivalry appears to be struggling to get off the ground, Ablett says the players have a different view.
"There's no doubt it's a big game for us. We'll be coming out fired up and ready to go," he said.
And the dual Brownlow medallist says it doesn't bother him whether the Lions tag him or not.
Ablett was kept to a 'quiet' 24 disposals by Docker Ryan Crowley at the weekend and the Lions have traditionally gone with Andrew Raines to do a similar role, although he hasn't played senior footy yet this year.
"The boys put plenty of blocks on for me on the weekend. I'm there to play a role, it's not about me, it's about the team," Ablett said.
"I think coaches are more looking for that 22-man effort from the defensive side of things rather than having one player tag someone for the whole game.
"You review a team from week to week and look at their strengths and weaknesses and try to come up with a game plan to beat that. That's what we'll be doing again this week."
