Liam Shiels 

One of the Hawks best players in the qualifying final loss to Richmond last Thursday night, Liam Shiels appeared right at home in the heat of the battle of finals footy. Laying a game-high 11 tackles to go with his 26 touches and one goal, Shiels was impactful throughout multiple areas of the game. The vice-captain will be looking to deliver a similar performance against the outstanding Demons midfield.

Ricky Henderson

In his second season in the brown and gold, Ricky Henderson has quietly put together another strong season whilst playing in a variety of roles for the Hawks. Having recorded the fifth-most possessions of any Hawk in 2018, the former Crow’s year hit a new high against the Tigers as he registered the second-highest disposal tally of the side, behind only Tom Mitchell. The games of players like Henderson figure to determine the Hawks’ fortunes on Friday night.

Jordan Lewis

In his two encounters with the Hawks since crossing to the Demons, Jordan Lewis has failed to leave the field victorious. In his side’s elimination final against Geelong, Lewis was instrumental in leading a side boasting very little finals experience. Playing in his 25^thcareer finals, Lewis’ September know-how will likely again prove valuable against his old side this Friday night.

Max Gawn

The All Australian ruckman of 2018, Max Gawn has produced one of the best seasons by a ruckman of all-time. Averaging 45.3 taps per game, Gawn is set to pass North Melbourne counterpart Todd Goldstein’s current record for the most hit-outs recorded in a season this Friday night. The 26-year old is Melbourne’s most valuable player, with his ability to impact around the ground especially evident this year. Big Boy McEvoy has a big task on his hands!

Angus Brayshaw

Having managed just 15 games over the past two seasons prior to this one, Angus Brayshaw’s career was at somewhat of a crossroads entering his fourth year in the system. But the former number three pick has put all the doubters to shame this season in what has been an outstandingly impressive year. The 22-year old has averaged 26.7 possessions and 4.7 tackles over his 20 outings this year, displaying a huge appetite for the contest. Brayshaw’s game is tailor-made for finals and you can expect him to relish the big stage on the MCG this Friday night in another crunch clash for his club.