Patrick Dangerfield
The Hawks will be wary of star Adelaide midfielder Patrick Dangerfield tonight.
Averaging close to 27 disposals per game in 2015, the 25-year-old has been among the competition’s standout players this season.
Last time the Crows met the Hawks, Dangerfield starred with 31 disposals to almost will his side to victory.
With his ability to win the ball in close, break away from stoppages and impact the scoreboard, Dangerfield poses a massive threat to the Hawks.
Sam Jacobs v Ben McEvoy/David Hale
As always, winning the midfield battle will be pivotal, and getting first hands on the ball will be crucial to that.
Hawks duo Ben McEvoy and David Hale will have important roles to play if their side is to win through to a preliminary final.
Both have had consistent seasons, as has Crows ruckman Ben Jacobs, who ranks third in the competition for hit-outs.
Jarryd Roughead
With Jack Gunston sidelined through injury, vice-captain Jarryd Roughead’s role in the Hawks’ forward line becomes even more important.
The Crows will likely send All Australian defender Daniel Talia to Roughead, who has kicked 45 goals from 21 games this season.
The 28-year-old could be partnered by James Frawley or Ryan Schoenmakers up forward – or both – and his ability to win the ball in the air or bring it to ground for the likes of Cyril Rioli and Paul Puopolo could go a long way towards the Hawks winning.
Eddie Betts v Ben Stratton/Taylor Duryea
Among the best small forwards in the game, Eddie Betts enters tonight’s match in fantastic form.
Betts has kicked 19 goals in his past five matches, including five in the Crows’ elimination final win last week.
However, Betts has managed just one goal in his last two games against the Hawks.
Last time it was Ben Stratton who shut down Betts, restricting him to one goal, while Angus Litherland did the job previously – and Taylor Duryea could be another to spend time on the dangerous goal-sneak tonight.
Luke Hodge
Luke Hodge is no stranger to delivering when the pressure is at its greatest – a trend he will no doubt be looking to continue against the Crows.
With his side’s season on the line, the Hawks’ skipper will be out to lead from the front.
Averaging close to 27 disposals per match in 2015, Hodge has enjoyed an outstanding season across half-back and through the midfield.
He starred against the Crows in Round 12 this year and will be hoping to have a big say on tonight’s proceedings.
