Rookie Gold Coast coach Stuart Dew believes his side has proved itself capable of sustaining the defensive intensity his game plan demands.

But he knows a trip to the Adelaide Oval will provide a whole new challenge for the AFL’s youngest squad.

Both teams boast 3-2 records ahead of Saturday’s clash, with Matt Crouch (hamstring) back for the Crows and Michael Barlow (broken leg) forcing his Suns return after irresistible NEAFL form.

Rory Sloane (foot) will not return as expected though, while inaugural Sun Michael Rischitelli follows teammate Aaron Hall to the emergency list in Dew’s second telling omission in as many weeks.

The Suns somehow held on in a frantic five-point defeat of Brisbane last weekend but Dew knows they’ll need to be more efficient to be any chance against last season’s grand finalists.

“We took a breath (after the win); the last quarter was pretty hectic with lots to like but a lot to learn and a good game for the group to be a part of,” Dew said.

“We’ve shown we are capable of bringing the intent we’re after.

“But when they’re on they’re really damaging … had a big win in Sydney and we’re preparing for the best.”

In an ironic twist Barlow, who’s averaged 41.5 disposals in two NEAFL games this season, is back after Darcy Macpherson fractured his lower leg in the second quarter against the Lions.

“With Darcy coming out, they’re not like for like but we think we can manufacture a different look,” Dew said.

The battles at either end of the park will be telling, with Daniel Talia likely to line up on Suns co-captain Tom Lynch and Crows skipper Taylor Walker against Rory Thompson with help from Steven May.

Lynch, sixth on the Coleman Medal tally with 14 goals, will have his work cut out after Talia kept Lance Franklin to just one goal last week.