James Sicily
Fresh off a best-on-ground performance and preparing to play his 50th game, the big beyondblue Cup contest was tailor-made for James Sicily. The fiery defender has averaged 25 disposals at 82 percent efficiency in 2018, including nine intercept possessions. Despite a couple of undisciplined moments, Sicily has proven he is a star of the competition, and is only getting more dangerous as the games go on. When the Hawks last met the Swans in Round 19 last year, Sicily collected 26 disposals, nine intercept possessions and 14 marks, as well as a game-high 557 metres gained.
Tom Mitchell
Playing against his former side for the third time, Tom Mitchell will have to be on his game if the Hawks are to overcome the might and power of the Swans engine room. Mitchell’s had his lowest disposal count of 2017 in his last encounter with the Swans in Round 19 last year with “just” 26 possessions. The 24-year old remains the league leader for disposals recorded in 2018, averaging 36.1 per game. Coming off one of his more complete games against Essendon last week (29 disposals, 18 contested possessions, 10 tackles, eight clearances and one goal), Mitchell will be aiming for another game that can help deliver the Hawks another important win.
Jarryd Roughead
Jarryd Roughead was best on ground in the Hawks victory over the Swans last year at the SCG, with his 24 disposals, eight marks and two goals earning him the three Brownlow votes. Roughead has had a strong start to the season, without setting the world on fire, averaging just shy of two goals per game to go with his 14.3 disposals and 4.4 marks. The 31-year old has a strong history against Sydney, kicking more goals against the Swans than any other opposition side. Under the Friday night lights at the MCG against famous rivals, a monster performance beckons for the Hawks captain.
Tom McCartin
The Swans will unveil 2017 draftee Tom McCartin in Friday night's clash with the Hawks. Younger brother of St Kilda's Paddy, McCartin is said to be strong on the lead, can take a great contested grab and is reliable in front of goal. Taken with Pick 33 in last year's draft, McCartin played alongside Hawthorn's James Worpel at the Geelong Falcons in the TAC Cup. The Hawks will be hoping to curb his influence early to ensure the youngster doesn't inspire his side to victory.
Isaac Heeney
Isaac Heeney has taken his game to another level in 2018. Despite being just 22 years of age, Heeney is already one of the Swans’ most important players. Playing predominantly on the half forward line, Heeney is averaging career-highs all over the stat sheet including disposals (21.3), tackles (five), inside 50s (3.3), clearances (3.6) and contested possessions (11.3). He ranks second at the club for goal assists (1.1 per game) and fourth for goals with six to his name so far this season, highlighting his importance to the Swans kicking a winning score.
