IT’S a simple task for Hawthorn on Saturday afternoon, according to in-form midfielder Isaac Smith.
 
The Hawks will be looking to rebound from a disappointing defeat to Port Adelaide when they host Brisbane Lions at Aurora Stadium, in what will be the club’s final home game on the Apple Isle in 2015.
 
With two games to play before finals, Smith – who is averaging close to 25 disposals per match this season – said the focus was on building form as a team.
 
“We’re looking to play a good, solid game of team football,” the 26-year-old told hawthornfc.com.au.
 
“I know it’s pretty boring and simple, but that’s what you aim to do. We just want to play our brand of football over quarters.
 
“Hopefully we can play our style of footy, play well and get the win down in Tassie.”
 
While the Hawks will be out to build form going into finals, the clash will be every bit as important for the Lions, who will be desperate to cause an upset to try to avoid the wooden spoon.
 
Vice-captain and key on-baller Daniel Rich returns for the Lions, alongside Justin Clarke and Hugh Beasley.
 
The developing Lions haven’t had the ideal season, but Smith says the Hawks know they can be dangerous if they get their game style up and running.
 
“We’ve had a look at their side, and they’re certainly trying to play an attacking brand of footy,” Smith said.
 
“It can be difficult to combat a team that plays like that when they get up and about, are kicking goals and have a lot of energy.”
 
With ruckman Stefan Martin leading an on-ball brigade that features the likes of skipper Tom Rockliff, Dayne Zorko, Allen Christensen and Rich, the Lions rank alongside the Hawks as one of the top six clearance sides in the competition.

The sixth-ranked Lions average 40 clearances per match, narrowly behind the Hawks, who average 41.5 per game in season 2015.
 
Smith said the Hawks, who will be without skipper Luke Hodge, could ill-afford to take the lowly Lions lightly.
 
“It’s a great opportunity for us to rebound,” he said.
 
“I know all the boys will be itching to get back out there… hopefully we can play a good game and start to set ourselves for September.”