Hawthorn’s VFLW side has secured a finals spot after defeating NT Thunder by 25 points on Saturday afternoon.
The Hawks were presented with one of their biggest challenges for the season, as they battled the hot weather conditions in their only interstate game at TIO Stadium in Darwin.
Both teams opened the contest with fiery intent, but it was Sarah Perkins who booted the first goal for the Hawks, while the brown and gold’s defensive efforts kept the Thunder off the scoreboard.
An early major from Sue Nalder in the second quarter saw the home side pinch the lead, before the Hawks reclaimed momentum.
Emma Mackie, Clare O’Donnell and Phoebe McWilliams were able to execute in front of goal, helping their side to a 16-point lead at the main break.
Perkins opened the third quarter quickly, booting her second goal and setting the pace for a strong second half.
An impressive patch from McWilliams saw her add another two goals to her tally, before the NT Thunder responded with back-to-back majors from Captain Ange Foley and Jasmyn Hewett.
The stage was set for a big final quarter.
Mackie kicked her second goal, adding her name to the list of multiple goal kickers.
Last efforts from the Thunder led to a major from Jordan Hickey, before the siren sounded the final result 4.4 (28) to 8.5 (53).
It was Rebecca Beeson who shone in a prominent performance, finding herself at ease amid the sunny conditions.
The Hawks return home next week for their final clash of the home and away season - a VFL double-header against Geelong on Saturday 25th of August at Box Hill City Oval, commencing at 11:30am.
HAWTHORN 1.2 4.2 7.2 8.5 (53)
NT THUNDER 0.2 1.4 3.4 4.4 (28)
GOALS
Hawthorn: McWilliams (3), Perkins (2), Mackie (2), O’Donnell
NT Thunder: Nalder, Foley, Hewett, Hickey
BEST
Hawthorn: Beeson, Nestor, Van Dyk, Ebb, Nixon, Crockett-Grills
NT Thunder: Foley, Marinoff, Thorn, Swanson, Streader, Irvine
