The form
Hawthorn has had a mixed start to the season and is 3-3 after six rounds of action. The Hawks went down to GWS by 10 points last round and currently sit in 8th place on the AFL Ladder.
The Demons are also looking for a win after their 38-point loss to Sydney at the MCG last round. Melbourne has two wins and four losses and is 15th on the ladder.
Recent history
The last time the Hawks played the Demons (Round 20, 2014), Hawthorn won by 50 points at the MCG. Recent history favours Hawthorn with the Hawks enjoying an 11-game win streak against the Demons (the last Melbourne victory was in 2006).
Send in the reinforcements
Hawthorn’s defensive stocks have been boosted with the return of James Frawley this week. It will be the first time the ex-Demon lines up against his old side.
Inside 50s the key weapon?
Inside 50s could prove vital if the Hawks are to notch up their fourth win of the season. Alastair Clarkson’s side have the most inside 50s this season (62.3 per game) while the Demons are ranked last with 40.2 inside 50s per game.
Hawthorn also lead the competition in marks inside 50 (88) compared to last-placed Melbourne (45).
Home comforts
The Hawks return to the MCG after three consecutive away games and will be encouraged by the fact that Hawthorn has won 13 of its past 14 matches at the MCG.
Will Roughead take charge?
The match-up between Jarryd Roughead and Tom McDonald is one that many AFL fans will be looking forward to. Acting skipper Roughead will be hoping for a strong performance with Luke Hodge and Jordan Lewis suspended but will be challenged by Melbourne’s Tom McDonald.
The Demon has been impressive early in the season and will be confident after keeping Lance Franklin goalless last round.
Find out all you need to know about Round 7 match-day.
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