'Rusty' Ablett still shines for Suns

As assessments go, Rodney Eade's take on Gary Ablett's start to the AFL season is pretty ominous for Gold Coast's 2016 opponents.

The two-time Brownlow Medallist led the Suns out at Metricon Stadium against Essendon on Saturday having not played a single minute of the club's pre-season fixtures.

Taking on a patchwork Bombers outfit decimated by the doping bans placed on 12 members of the squad, Ablett dominated the contest in a 61-point win.

In addition to 34 disposals, Ablett laid seven tackles and had 14 contested possessions.

He was one of 11 goalkickers for the Suns as well.

The numbers were impressive, but his coach Eade felt overall it was a rusty display by his skipper.

"He's missed two of his goals that he'd kick with his eyes shut," Eade said.

"At times he probably took on the tackle a bit too much and picked the wrong option.

"He's obviously a great player so I've got no doubt he'll get better."