By Michael Whiting
Gold Coast SUNS vice-captain Nathan Bock believes the GC SUNS recent good showing at Patersons Stadium against West Coast holds them in good stead for Saturday's match at the same venue against Fremantle.
It was less than four weeks ago the GC SUNS made the longest trip in the game and pushed the red-hot Eagles to within 18 points.
Bock said while a third trip to Perth this season (they also played West Coast in the NAB Cup) would be tough, he believed the young GC SUNS would be better for their recent experience.
"It's a bit unusual, normally you don't make that many trips to Perth, it definitely takes its toll on the body but we'll embrace it and I'm sure the young boys will be up for it," Bock said.
"It's all part of AFL and you've got to get yourself up for these games and these long trips. We performed really well against West Coast last time and I think this week will be no different.
"Having played there twice already it gives the boys a bit of knowledge about the ground.
"It's longer than most grounds and the performance we put on the park last time against West Coast will give the boys a lot of confidence I think."
Like many of his teammates, Bock has improved as the season has gone on.
The 2008 All Australian defender is given the responsibility of the opposition's best forward, and not only is he keeping them under a tight reign, but he's recently returned to his rebounding best.
Bock, 28, has chalked up 20-plus disposals in four of his past five matches, despite keeping tabs on the likes of Josh Kennedy, Lance Franklin and Barry Hall.
On Saturday he is likely to stand alongside Matthew Pavlich when the Fremantle captain moves forward from his primary midfield role.
"I've had the opportunity to play on Pavlich many times and he's a great player and I'm looking forward to the challenge," Bock said.
"The body is feeling really good, I'm enjoying my footy and enjoying the challenges of being able to play on these good forwards each week. It's going to be a tough back end of the season but I'm mentally prepared and really looking forward to the challenges ahead."
