Stratts cited
It was a forgettable night for Ben Stratton as he was cited by the Match Review Officer on three separate charges. Stratton was referred directly to the tribunal on charges relating to pinching and stomping. Following the Hawks’ loss, Hawthorn CEO Justin Reeves assured members and the broader football public that Stratton’s actions in no way align with the values of the club. “Ben is a very respected figure at our football club, but his actions on Friday night let himself and the club down,” said Reeves.
Third quarter hiccup
Essendon held a three-point lead heading into half-time on Friday night after the first two quarters did little to split the two rivals. But the ultimate difference in the game came in the third term, as the Bombers piled on five goals to the Hawks’ two. This created a buffer that would be the difference in the final margin.
Impey, Worpel shining lights
The positive for the Hawks on Friday night was the performances of two of their young guns in Jarman Impey and James Worpel. Impey had his best game of the year, collecting 24 disposals, eight marks and booting two goals from the back flank while Worpel put up a career-high 34 touches as he continues his break-out year.
Onwards and upwards
The Hawks now find themselves in 12th position on the ladder, two games behind the eighth-placed Tigers who have a bye this weekend. Finals aren’t off the Hawthorn radar yet, but Alastair Clarkson’s side must make in-roads this weekend against Sydney. The Hawks have a strong record at the SCG, winning their last five games there, and they will be hoping to extend that in what promises to be another Friday night blockbuster.
