Hawthorn + Geelong = Classic
Over the last decade, you can almost guarantee that when these two sides clash, it is a must-watch. Over the course of their last 25 encounters, there have been 13 single-digit margins, with three of the clubs’ last four meetings being separated by three points or less.
Kennett Curse kaput
OK, yes. The Kennett Curse ended officially in the Hawks’ famous 2013 Preliminary Final win over their archrivals. But, an element of the Curse still lingered given Jeff Kennett’s return to the Hawthorn presidency. The Hawks had failed to register a win under President Kennett since he uttered those infamous words after the 2008 Grand Final.
Geelong’s geniuses at work
The debut of the Cat all-star midfield cast drew much of the attention in the build-up to this blockbuster clash. Geelong Coach Chris Scott only added to the hype, when he started his superstar trinity of Joel Selwood, Patrick Dangerfield and Gary Ablett Jnr in the centre square for the opening bounce. The trio did not disappoint, combining for 95 disposals (including 43 contested), 14 tackles and four goals. All three were at their best in the final term, almost inspiring an unlikely comeback win.
Hawks midfielders step up
Despite the challenge of facing the Cats midfield trio for the first time, the Hawthorn on-ball brigade stood strong. Ben McEvoy was arguably the best player afield, recording 33 hit-outs, including 15 to advantage, to go along with his 16 disposals, five marks, three tackles and a goal. While Tom Mitchell was again outstanding, gathering 40 disposals (23 of which were contested), 13 clearances, nine inside 50s and two goals.
Silk's streak over?
Shaun Burgoyne’s hamstring injury was the low-point of an otherwise triumphant day for the Hawks. Burgoyne left the field in the latter stages of the first quarter and didn't return to the game. Hawthorn Coach Alastair Clarkson told his post-match press conference that he doubted the four-time premiership superstar would be fit to face Richmond in their Round 3 clash. The 35-year old has the third-longest active games streak with 107, behind only Richmond’s Brandon Ellis (108) and Geelong’s Zach Tuohy (117).
