HAWTHORN will be determined to enter the 2015 finals series with winning form, when it tackles Carlton at the MCG on Saturday.
The Hawks scored a convincing win against the Blues, and will be looking for a similar result this week with a top-two spot still a mathematical possibility.
If St Kilda can upset West Coast Eagles, and the Hawks beat the Blues, the Hawks will leapfrog the Eagles into second spot on the ladder and still a home qualifying final.
While the Blues will be undermanned, with only 25 players available, they will be desperate to produce a big effort and try to finish their season on a high.
The form
Hawthorn has won three of its past five games, with wins against Brisbane Lions, Geelong and the Eagles, and losses to Richmond and Port Adelaide.
The Hawks scored a convincing 72-point win over the Lions on the weekend – without Luke Hodge and Sam Mitchell.
Liam Shiels collected 34 disposals against the Lions, continuing his strong season, while Jack Gunston has kicked seven goals in the past fortnight.
For Carlton, Patrick Cripps has been a standout, with 56 disposals in the past fortnight.
The Blues have won just one of their past eight matches, which was by 23 points against Melbourne in Round 21.
Recent history
The Hawks have won their past 12 matches against the Blues, with the streak dating back to 2005.
In the clubs’ most recent meeting, in Round 17 this year, the Hawks recorded a 138-point win.
However, three of the clubs’ past seven matches have been decided by three kicks or less.
Possible changes
Hawthorn skipper Luke Hodge will again miss through suspension, however Sam Mitchell (illness) and Paul Puopolo (ankle) are expected to return.
The Hawks will have almost a full list to choose from.
Brendan Whitecross, who was an AFL emergency last week, has had a consistent month in the VFL and could be in contention for his first AFL match since Round 6.
Premiership defender Matt Spangher is expected to line-up in the VFL again this weekend as he returns from a hamstring injury.
Carlton will be without Chris Yarran (hamstring) and Sam Docherty (groin), while David Ellard (concussion) is considered unlikely to play.
Midfielder Andrew Carrazzo will return for his final AFL game, while Liam Jones, Nick Holman, Tom Fields and Clem Smith could come into senior consideration.
