Day six of our Finals Face Off is our first match up featuring the same player being brilliant in two different moments. In Face Off #6 it’s Cyril v Cyril.

Cyril Rioli debuted for Hawthorn in 2008 and played every game that year on the way to winning a premiership in his first season. 

Even with all his brilliance displayed in his debut season, it was a moment in his 25^th game, the Grand Final, that stands in the memory of Hawks fans.

Trailing the Cats by a goal, it was Stuart Dew (winner of Face Off #2) that cleared the ball from the backline towards Rioli on the wing.

Rioli initially only had Corey Enright to beat, but pretty soon two other Cats arrived, outnumbered and under pressure, Rioli first slowed up the ball, then forced a tackle on Max Rooke resulting in a holding the ball decision that gave the Hawks possession. 

“That’s what wins you matches”, said David Schwartz in commentary. The moment was massive and it preceded the magical five minutes of Dew.

In the 2015 decider, Cyril’s status in the game had already been established and he started the game on fire.

As West Coast’s Mark Hutchings broke off half back and Rioli started his pursuit. Hutchings had a bounce, but Rioli was in range, he had his man, the tackle forced an incorrect disposal and holding the ball decision. 

Seconds later, the ball was in Gunston’s hands and then through the goals for a 37-point lead to the Hawks half-way through the second quarter. 

It was just one moment in a brilliant day for Rioli that saw him win the Norm Smith Medal alongside his fourth premiership medal for the Hawks. 

Vote for your favourite moment below and tune in tomorrow to see who progresses and who will be in Finals Face Off #7.

Watch previous Finals Face Off rounds and see who won here.