The Tigers (9-5) received a wake-up call against North Melbourne and need to regroup and make a statement to keep their September plans on track. Gold Coast in Cairns, however, has proven to be the club's bogey fixture and four points are not guaranteed this week. The Suns (5-9), who have lost their past three clashes, expect to be boosted by the return of star midfielder Gary Ablett from a calf injury, while Tigers Bachar Houli (hamstring) and Ivan Maric (groin) should return for a crucial match.     

 

WHERE AND WHEN: Cazalys Stadium, Saturday July 13, 4.40pm

 

 

LAST TWO TIMES

R16, 2012, Gold Coast 13.12 (90) d Richmond 13.10 (88) at Cazalys Stadium

R17, 2011, Gold Coast 12.13 (85) d Richmond 9.16 (70) at Cazalys Stadium

 

 

1. The Suns beat Richmond by 15 points in 2011 and by two points in 2012 with both matchers played in Cairns at Cazalys Stadium. Last season the Suns snuck home thanks to a goal after the final siren to Karmichael Hunt.

 

2. So far Gary Ablett has been the difference between the sides, averaging 30 possessions and polling a total of five Brownlow Medal votes. He is still the clear No.1 in the Official AFL Player Ratings.

 

3. Richmond has played five 'home' games interstate in their history and has lost all five.

 

4. Defensively Richmond is well ahead of Gold Coast this season, conceding 85 points per game compared to the Suns 96 per game.

 

5. The Tigers continue to be the worst tackling side in 2013 ranked last with an average 54.6 per game compared to the Suns, who rank 11th with 61.1 per game.

 

6. Gold Coast has been impressive in 2013 for clearances, ranked sixth with 39.1 per game. Richmond is 12th with 36.6 per game.