The Changes
Hawthorn
In: Lovell, Howe. Out: Langford (corked quad), Hartung (omitted)
GWS Giants
In: Palmer. Out: Smith (knee).
The Form
GWS Giants are in good touch at the moment, coming off big wins against St Kilda and Port Adelaide in recent weeks.
The return of Jeremy Cameron to their line-up last week adds more talent to what is already a dangerous forward line, and he didn’t waste any time in making his presence felt with five goals.
Hawthorn fans will be hoping he has a quieter game this week, but he has got form against the Hawks, kicking seven goals against them at Spotless Stadium last year.
The Hawks on the other hand just keep on finding a way to win, despite not playing at their best.
The reigning premiers have had a relatively difficult draw thus far, having played four genuine finals contenders in Geelong, West Coast, the Western Bulldogs and Adelaide, as well as a St Kilda side which pushed them right until the final siren. Although the wins haven’t been pretty, the four points from each of the Hawks’ four wins are vital.
The Hawks showed glimpses of their best footy at times last week however, to suggest they may be about to recapture some of the form which has made them the benchmark team of the past three seasons.
Stats That Matter
The Hawks are down -60 in the contested possession count over the last three weeks. This is a department they simply must improve in against the Giants, who are up +39 in that area over the last two weeks.
Key Player
After having to play more of a lock-down role last week against the Crows, who had a number of dangerous tall forwards, reigning best and fairest Josh Gibson will be itching to get more of the ball this week. Gibson had just 15 disposals - his third lowest tally in his past 30 games.
It’s A Big Week For…
After proving to be the difference last week, Paul Puopolo will be hoping that his hot form continues. He played almost the complete game against the Crows – 23 disposals, five goals, five clearances and six tackles. The Hawks will hope to see more of that this week.
Odd Fact
Despite GWS suffering some big losses in their early years in the AFL, Hawthorn hasn’t scored all that heavily against the Giants since they came into the national competition. The Hawks currently sit 10th for points scored against the Giants.
Final Thoughts
Hawthorn fans will be hoping for a more relaxing game against the Giants – after three consecutive three-point thrillers - but the Giants are a quality outfit and will take some beating on their home patch.
