As Hawthorn continues its troubled start to the year, Hawks fans can find solace in the form of the Box Hill Hawks, who have shot to 3-0 on the back of the performances of some promising youngsters.

Harry Morrison has been a consistent contributor throughout the opening three weeks of the season, and was again among Box Hill’s best on Sunday against Williamstown, collecting 29 disposals and 14 marks.

A former Murray Bushranger who was selected with pick 74 in last year’s National Draft, Morrison has impressed coaches with his drive off half-back and hunger for the football.

James Cousins is another first-year Hawk who has pleased the coaching staff with his ability to win contested possession, an area that the senior side is currently struggling in.

“Cousins was our leading contested possession getter. That’s going to be his style, he’s very strong over the footy for an 18-year old,” said Development Coach Max Bailey after Box Hill’s Round 2 win.

23-year old Jonathan O’Rourke has continued his strong recovery from a hamstring injury that impeded much of his pre-season.

In his third game of the year, the former GWS Giant gathered 27 possessions, including five clearances, to push his name into the selection mix.

Read: How the listed-Hawks fared in VFL Round 3

Alternatively, if coach Alastair Clarkson was looking to inject some experience into his senior line-up, there have been several senior players who have responded well to their demotions.

Brendan Whitecross has put together some strong VFL performances, as he eyes off two more senior selections to reach his 100-game milestone.

Newly recruited pair Ricky Henderson and Ty Vickery have been solid, with Vickery kicking three goals for the second consecutive week on Sunday.

The Hawks’ line up will also be buoyed by the expected return of premiership duo Grant Birchall (jaw) and Cyril Rioli (hip), both deemed fit by Elite Performance Manager Andrew Russell.

“[Cyril] settled down over the weekend and did a couple of good running sessions,” said Russell.

“We expect him to pull up well, train Thursday and get ready to play.”

“[Birchall] is certainly available, and he is a big chance to be selected I would think.”

Read: Bupa recovery report Round 7

The Hawks are set to face the in-form Demons, along with former teammate Jordan Lewis, at the MCG on Sunday afternoon.