SWINGMAN Ryan Schoenmakers and speedster Billy Hartung return for Hawthorn’s do-or-die semi final clash with Adelaide Crows at the MCG on Friday night.
Schoenmakers returns for his first game at AFL level since Round 21, replacing injured forward Jack Gunston (ankle), while Hartung returns at the expense of premiership on-baller Will Langford (omitted).
GM – Football Operations Chris Fagan said Schoenmakers’ versatility would be a strength for the Hawks against the Crows, while Hartung’s run and carry would also be important.
“(Ryan) brings a lot of versatility to the team. He can play either back or forward, which allows James Frawley to either play back or forward, so we could do anything there with those guys,” Fagan said.
“It just gives us real flexibility.
“Billy Hartung’s come into the team to provide some extra run and speed, which we think will be useful at the MCG.
“Will’s a little unlucky, but (his) form hasn’t quite been where we need it to be.”
Fagan said the Hawks were determined to produce a “much better performance” this week, after last week’s qualifying final loss to West Coast Eagles.
A win for the Hawks against the Crows will secure a preliminary final berth against Fremantle.
Semi Final - Team
Hawthorn v Adelaide Crows
MCG
Friday 18 September, 7.50pm AEST
B: Ben Stratton, Brian Lake, Matt Suckling
HB: Grant Birchall, Josh Gibson, Shaun Burgoyne
C: Bradley Hill, Sam Mitchell, Liam Shiels
HF: Cyril Rioli, James Frawley, Isaac Smith
F: Luke Breust, Jarryd Roughead, Paul Puopolo
Foll: Ben McEvoy, Luke Hodge, Jordan Lewis
I/C: Ryan Schoenmakers, Taylor Duryea, David Hale, Billy Hartung
Emer: Jon Ceglar, Angus Litherland, Will Langford
In: Ryan Schoenmakers, Billy Hartung
Out: Jack Gunston (ankle), Will Langford (omitted)
Milestone: Matt Suckling - 100th AFL game
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