FRIDAY night’s clash between Hawthorn and Richmond promises to be one of the biggest and most important between the two clubs in recent history.
The Hawks and Tigers have never played against each other in a final, and both clubs are still competing for a top-four position heading into this year’s finals series.
A win for either side will be a massive boost to their top four aspirations.
The past four clashes between these sides have all been decided by 41 points or more – with the Hawks and Tigers winning two each.
But five years ago, in Round 8 2010, the Hawks and Tigers faced off in a thriller at the MCG.
The Tigers entered the match on the back of seven losses, while the Hawks hadn’t fared much better – having won just one of seven matches.
Both sides’ seasons were on the line.
The Hawks won by three points, 13.11 (89) to 13.8 (86).
For Richmond, Brett Deledio starred with 35 disposals, while Jack Riewoldt kicked four goals.
Cyril Rioli slotted four majors for the Hawks, while Sam Mitchell led the way for Hawthorn, collecting 29 disposals and three Brownlow votes.
It was Mitchell, who with a desperate lunging tackle, stopped Tiger Shane Tuck from having a shot on goal with seconds on the clock.
The win – which was the first in brown and gold for Shaun Burgoyne, Ben Stratton and former Hawk Wayde Skipper – turned around the Hawks’ season, as they won 11 of their remaining 15 home-and-away games.
RELATED
Bupa Recovery Report: Spangher hamstrung
Booing Goodes not on, says Lewis
