DEFENDER Grant Birchall says the Hawks are excited about the opportunity to test themselves against one of the competition’s form sides, West Coast Eagles, on their home turf on Saturday.
The Hawks will have plenty to play for, with a loss to the second-placed Eagles almost certainly ruling the reigning premiers out of contention for a home qualifying final.
After a disappointing defeat to Richmond last week, Birchall said the Hawks would be raring to go.
“They’re a good side, they’ve got a good quality system and Simmo’s (Eagles coach Adam Simpson) got them up and going,” the experienced Hawk said.
“Their pressure has been really good and it’s going to be a big test for us.
“That top two spot is up for grabs – and I’m sure we would like a home qualifying final – so we’ll give it everything we’ve got.”
The Eagles rank second in the competition offensively – behind the Hawks – and Birchall is expecting a big test from the hosts’ star-studded forward line on Saturday.
Power forward Josh Kennedy leads the Coleman Medal table with 58 majors, while Mark LeCras (32), Jamie Cripps (26) and Jack Darling (16) are also potent near goal.
“They’ve played the game in their half quite a bit and have given their forwards every opportunity,” Birchall said.
“Our positioning and our ‘fight to the death’ attitude is going to have to be at its peak, so it’s a good challenge for us.”
The Hawks’ defence has been in strong form this season – they have conceded just 100 points once this season – and Birchall is one defender travelling nicely, averaging more than 25 disposals per game over the past four weeks.
The 27-year-old said support from the Hawks’ midfield brigade would be crucial against the Eagles.
Midfielders Luke Shuey and Elliott Yeo have also proved their ability to push forward and kick goals, as has ruckman Nic Naitanui.
“The midfield battle on Saturday night will be critical, and hopefully we can put some scoreboard pressure on them,” Birchall said.
“If the midfielders can apply a lot of pressure, that certainly helps us as defenders.”
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