1. Hawks turn around tough start
Late in the second quarter, the Swans had six goals to the Hawks’ none, and had opened up a 36-point advantage.
But the hosts found a way back into the contest, to find themselves within a goal in the early stages of the final term.
While the Hawks couldn’t quite get the job done, that fight-back was a positive sign.
2. Gunston in hot form
While the Hawks have had an up-and-down month, with a 2-2 record, Jack Gunston has been a consistent performer.
The key forward has had 15 or more disposals in each of the past four games, and is averaging four goals per game in that period.
With 11 marks and six inside 50s against the Swans, Gunston played an important role not just in front of goal.
3. Key ball movers down
Uncharacteristically, a number of Hawthorn’s key ball movers had a quiet night.
Leaders Jordan Lewis (20 disposals) and Sam Mitchell (15 disposals) didn’t have their regular influence, as the Hawks’ disposals efficiency – 69.8 per cent – was well down on their season average of 74.6 per cent.
4. Swans too strong in the contest
Hawthorn was ranked number one for tackles before the weekend, but was outgunned by Sydney around the contest.
While the clearance count was narrowly in the Hawks’ favour – 39 to 37 – the Swans dominated not only the contested ball count (133 - 162) but also the tackle count (54 – 80).
Second quarter lapse costly, says Shiels
The Swans had nine players with five tackles or more, compared to the Hawks’ three.
5. Important five weeks ahead
It’s an important block of five weeks approaching heading into the mid-season bye, which could set the Hawks up for a run at a top four berth.
But it won’t be easy.
The Hawks face Brisbane Lions at the Gabba this week, followed by Melbourne (MCG), Essendon (Etihad), North Melbourne (Etihad) and Gold Coast Suns (Aurora).
