Gold Coast SUNS midfielder Michael Rischitelli says he isn't overwhelmed by the prospect of facing his former side, the Brisbane Lions, for the first time when the two sides meet in NAB Challenge match at Southport on Sunday.

The clash will give the two Queensland clubs a chance to build up their state rivalry before they face off in the season proper in round seven and 21 at the Gabba.

Rischitelli left the Lions for the AFL's 17th franchise at the end of last season following an outstanding year in which he won the club's best and fairest.

In a double blow for the Lions they also lost versatile utility Jared Brennan to GC SUNS.

The pair will face their former side on Sunday and Rischitelli hopes he won't encounter any sledging from his old teammates.

"No [nerves]. I think it would be good to have a hit-out with some of the old mates," Rischitelli said on Monday.

"I suppose you have to play them some time so it just gives us another opportunity to get out on the park and have a hit-out.

"It's just another game, like I said we've just got to put our measures in place and I suppose it's just a good opportunity for the guys to get out there and have a hit-out."

GC SUNS had their third match of the pre-season against the Sydney Swans on Saturday with Swans star Adam Goodes taking advantage of an inexperienced GC SUNS defence, kicking six goals.

The cold, windy and wet conditions at Southport proved difficult for the young GC SUNS as they were out-bustled by the mature-bodied Swans to the tune of 72 points.

Rischitelli along with defender Campbell Brown, Jarrod Harbrow and Nathan Krakouer were all rested for the clash but are all expected to be available against the Lions, while captain Gary Ablett is still sidelined with a groin complaint.