Isaac Smith (Hawks)
Isaac Smith set the tone for the Hawks with a magnificent goal on the run last week – and a celebration among his finest.
He will be opening for a similar opportunity against the Dockers.
An up and about ‘Issie’ will be important to the Hawks’ chances of securing a fourth consecutive preliminary final win.
Averaging 23 disposals per match this season, the hard-running, long-kicking left footer will have a crucial role to play in helping the Hawks break the Dockers’ defence.
Nat Fyfe (Dockers)
While he’s only played three games in the past seven weeks, Nat Fyfe is the Brownlow Medal favourite for good reason and will be looking to stamp his authority on the big stage.
Fremantle’s star midfielder has averaged 29 disposals this season, and leads the competition for clearances per game (8.6) and contested possessions per game (17.9).
The 23-year-old ball magnet has collected 30 or more disposals in 10 matches this season, including his side’s qualifying final win.
But Fyfe was restricted against the Hawks earlier this year and will have a point to prove on his own turf.
Luke Breust (Hawks)
Sharpshooter Luke Breust was close to best on ground in the Hawks’ semi final win, kicking six goals straight.
After three weeks without a goal, Breust will be hoping his hot streak can continue against the Dockers.
The 24-year-old has had a stellar season, kicking 51 goals in 23 matches.
Breust also has a strong record against the Dockers, with nine goals from his past three matches against them.
Matthew Pavlich (Dockers)
If anyone can win Fremantle a preliminary final, it is skipper Matthew Pavlich.
A veteran of 334 games – and kicker of 668 goals – Pavlich will be desperate to lead his club to its second grand final appearance.
With 39 goals from 21 matches this season, the 33-year-old will prove a massive threat up forward, especially with the Dockers adding more height to their forward line at the selection table on Thursday night.
Alongside the likes of smalls Hayden Ballantyne and Michael Walters, the Dockers have assembled a potent forward line, and stopping Pavlich will be a key for the Hawks.
Brian Lake (Hawks)
Manning the Fremantle skipper could be a job that falls to experienced defender Brian Lake.
The dual premiership Hawk will play his 250th AFL game and is no stranger to delivering on the big stage in September.
A cornerstone of the Hawks’ defence, Lake will be confident he can have a massive influence in his milestone game.
The 33-year-old will no doubt remember the last time he took on the Dockers in a final… as most Hawks fans will.
RELATED
Team Selection: Preliminary Final
Numbers Game: Knights on Stratton
