After watching the first half of football at UTAS Stadium on Sunday, one would be forgiven for thinking the Hawks were down and out.

Having fumbled opportunities and now facing a 31-point deficit, the players had their work cut out for them.

But with a series of impressive plays, led by their senior heads, Alastair Clarkson’s men were able to claw their way back into the contest, eventually running away five-point victors.

When asked how his side managed such an emphatic turnaround, Clarkson had a simple answer. 

“I think some of our better players just started to play a bit better, pretty simply.”

“Once we recognised that we were chasing Carlton’s tail, we tried to change a few things. 

“I think 15 or 20 minutes for a bit of soul searching – not from me to the players, but the players to themselves – saying listen, we’re proud men who weren’t playing to the level that they’re capable of.

“A lot of our senior players had significant second halves that allowed us to get back into the contest."

Indeed, Liam Shiels was instrumental with 26 disposals and three goals, while fellow leader Jaeger O'Meara was arguably best on ground with 42 touches and a goal.

Hear what else Clarkson had to say in his post-match press conference here.