One down, two to go
Saturday’s crucial win against North Melbourne meant the Hawks were able to maintain that one game buffer at the top of the ladder.
The four is still yet to be decided though with the Swans, Crows and Cats all sitting closely behind top spot on 60 points.
GWS slipped out of the four after their nail biting loss against the Eagles, who along with the Bulldogs will all be pushing for that double chance over the next two weeks.
Crucial three make strong return
Premiership stars Paul Puopolo, Liam Shiels and James Frawley were all welcomed inclusions to Saturday’s side.
Shiels found plenty of the ball finishing with 21 disposals and six tackles while Frawley made a strong return after his late withdrawal due to a shoulder injury in Round 20.
Puopolo also displayed no loss of touch returning form a hip injury with 14 disposals, two goals and seven tackles.
Hawks’ depth runs deep
Ryan Burton has proven depth is no problem for the Hawks, becoming the seventh debutant for season 2016.
The 191cm forward overcame a badly broken leg before being drafted and showed on Saturday just why the Hawks gambled on picking him at No.19.
Burton finished the game with 10 touches, four marks and a goal in what was a strong first match against a tough opposition.
Age proves no barrier
Josh Gibson declared yesterday that “Clarko doesn't look at birth certificates, it's (about) the way you play for the side.”
This point was proven by the likes of Mitchell, Hodge, Lewis, Burgoyne and Gibson on Saturday as the 30-plus year veterans showed no signs of slowing down.
Mitchell was once again the game high possession getter with 37 touches, while Hodge and Lewis both dominated in the midfield finishing with 27 disposals each.
Ever reliable defenders Burgoyne and Gibson both produced strong performances.
Burgoyne has only missed four games since arriving at the Hawks at the end of 2009, while Gibson has missed just one match this season.
Friday night blockbuster
The Hawks dominating win against North Melbourne and the Eagles thrilling win against premiership contenders GWS sets up a blockbuster game for the two clubs on Friday night.
The two teams have not met since their Grand Final rematch in Round 2 which saw the Hawks claim victory by 46 points.
Given the recent form of the Eagles who have won six of their last seven games, you would expect Friday’s match to much closer given what is at stake.
