Good news for Hawks fans, with Luke Hodge cleared to play against West Coast this week despite suffering a head knock in Hawthorn’s Round 4 clash.
Hodge was one of the best afield, finishing with 35 disposals, five marks and five tackles.
Jaeger O’Meara could also be a welcome addition to the Hawks line up after missing Round 4 due to a knock to the knee sustained the week prior. Elite Performance Manager Andrew Russell says O’Meara will have the opportunity to prove his fitness before team selection.
"The knee is settling down well," says Russell.
"He's a test and we'll see how he handles the football load later in the week."
Ty Vickery will also be looking to break back into the side, after being a late withdrawal from the Hawks Easter Monday clash due to back tightness.
Dallas Willsmore appears on the verge of his AFL debut after managing 31 disposals for Box Hill, and helping clinch a two-point victory with an important late goal. Willsmore offers plenty of versatility, with his proven ability to play almost anywhere on the ground.
With Jonathan O’Rourke impressing on return from a hamstring injury, it may not be long until we see him back at AFL level. O’Rourke managed 25 disposals in a half of football, however he may need another week at Box Hill to increase his loads before being considered for senior selection.
The Hawks will take on West Coast in a Sunday twilight hit out at the MCG, as they attempt to shake their current ‘wooden spoon’ status.
Read: VFL match report Round 1
