The form
Hawthorn
The Hawks are flying high after an impressive team performance saw them walk away with a 62-point win over Geelong in Round 1.
Alastair Clarkson’s side was tough in the contest and will look to take that momentum through to Sunday’s game.
Essendon
The Bombers will head into the clash with an eye on a four quarter performance, having led for most of their Round 1 game before surrendering a 41-point lead in a goalless final quarter.
Recent history
In recent times, the Hawks have had some excellent results against traditional rivals Essendon, winning the last five contests.
Hawthorn last faced off against the Bombers in Round 2 last year, with the Hawks winning by four points in a thrilling contest at Etihad Stadium.
Essendon have not defeated the Hawks since 2010 and will be hoping to reverse their fortunes against the reigning premiers.
Is match fitness a concern for the Dons?
Essendon will be looking to maintain the intensity right up until the final whistle after Saturday night’s game against the Swans. Match fitness was an issue for the Bombers, with a bulk of their squad missing pre-season match experience. However, an eight-day break should aid their preparations as they look to notch up their first victory over the Hawks since Round 6, 2010.
Will the Hawks keep the momentum going?
The reigning premiers will take a strong side into the game but will be missing Liam Shiels who was subbed off in the third quarter with a hamstring injury, however, Grant Birchall looks close to returning to the Hawthorn line-up. The Bombers will still have their work cut out for them with Jordan Lewis, Luke Hodge and Shaun Burgoyne looking to replicate their form after strong showings in Round .
Key matchups
Michael Hurley could be the key to Essendon’s fortunes if he can shut down powerhouse forward Jarryd Roughead. Hurley contained Sydney forward Lance Franklin for most of the Round 1 game and will be looking to put in a similar performance against the 2014 Coleman Medallist on Sunday afternoon.
Shaun Burgoyne was at his stellar best in Hawthorn’s victory over the Cats with 18 possessions and six tackles, in addition to impressive work in defense.
Burgoyne could be given the task of stopping former Bulldog Adam Cooney, who proved he is far from finished with three goals from 13 disposals in an impressive showing for his new club.
Squad changes could prove pivotal
The loss of David Myers after just five minutes of play in the opening round hamstrung the Bombers’ midfield, and the absence of his penetrating left foot and size around clearances could prove costly this week. Hawthorn however, could welcome back Grant Birchall and the defender’s run off half-back will be a potent weapon.
