Hawthorn put on an impressive showing at Thursday night’s practice match, defeating the Blues by 24 points in front of a big crowd at Ikon Park.
James Worpel got the Hawks off to a quick start with a running goal from the 50m arc minutes into the first, while Liam Shiels and Jaeger O’Meara were busy early around the stoppages.
Youngster Dylan Moore booted two clever goals in the first half, while James Cousins showed his wares gathering plenty of disposal through the midfield.
Hawthorn kicked five straight in the first quarter, while the Blues were quiet early, with Charlie Curnow’s goal their sole return.
They stepped it up in the second term with repeat forward entries, but the Hawks’ defence held strong. Jarman Impey was an imposing presence across the half back line taking a pair of contested marks and providing plenty of dash.
Hawthorn went into half time with a 19-point buffer, before Isaac Smith extended his side's lead with a composed set shot minutes into the third.
Luke Breust and Paul Puopolo followed with a pair of goals inside a minute.
Arguably the play of the day went to Smith, who spoiled a Blue attack inside the centre square before enjoying a 100m dash down the wing. A centering kick saw Irishman Conor Nash send through an easy goal.
Carlton made a late run in the final term, booting four goals to Hawthorn’s one, sealing the final score 8.5.53 to 12.5.77.
Moore was one of many strong Hawk performances on the night, as the youngster continues his bid for a senior call up in his second season at the club.
“Nothing is going to simulate the actual games, but it was good to run out in the guernsey,” he said after the match.
“[It’s good to] get that competitive spirit, and get the conditioning in as well, so it’s really important for the boys to go out, have a crack and get the win.”
The players will now enjoy a four day break, before kicking off the JLT Community Series against Brisbane next weekend.
Q1 1.1.7 - 5.0.30
Q2 4.2.26 - 7.3.45
Q3 4.2.26 - 11.4.70
Q4 8.5.53 - 12.5.77
Hawthorn goal kickers:
Moore 2
Breust 2
Puopolo 2
Nash 2
Smith 1
Henderson 1
Worpel 1
Sicily 1
