1. Consistent McEvoy reaches 50
Hawthorn has had a knack for recruiting well from other clubs, and dual premiership player Ben McEvoy has been a more-than-handy pick-up.
The Hawks’ big man played his 50th game in brown and gold on Saturday, notching his 37th win.
In the absence of Jarryd Roughead and retirement of David Hale, McEvoy has stood up as a forward option, again clunking a handful of big marks against the Blues and hitting the scoreboard.
2. Room to improve
It wasn’t the prettiest of wins, and Hawks fans will be hoping there’s still room for improvement.
A four-goal third quarter burst was the highlight, before the Blues hit back with four of their own.
The Blues won the disposal count (381-353), tackle count (61-43) and clearance count (31-22) on the weekend – suggesting the Hawks have some hard yards ahead to hit their peak come September.
3. High five
Blake Hardwick became the fifth debutant unveiled by Alastair Clarkson this season, in Saturday’s win against the Blues.
Hardwick showed promise with eight disposals and three tackles, following in the footsteps of fellow 2016 debutants Marc Pittonet, Kieran Lovell, Kaiden Brand and Kade Stewart.
Only four clubs - the Brisbane Lions (eight), Sydney Swans (seven), Richmond (six) and Collingwood (six) have debuted more players this year than the ladder-leader in 2016.
4. Smooth as Silk, tough as nails
It’s been a brilliant month of football from veteran Hawk Shaun Burgoyne, who is showing no sign of slowing down.
Burgoyne has been brilliant in wins against Port Adelaide, the Swans and Richmond, and was arguably the Hawks’ best against the Blues, picking up 26 disposals.
But it was a crunching, goal-saving tackle on Jack Silvagni that reinforced just how important Burgoyne is for the Hawks.
5. No Cyril, no Poppy, no worries
With Paul Puopolo ruled out on Thursday night and Cyril Rioli a late withdrawal, Hawthorn’s forward line again had a different look against the Blues.
But Luke Breust (two goals) and Jack Gunston (one) had a big impact, while big men Jon Ceglar (two goals) and Ben McEvoy (one) also pushed forward to great effect to stretch the Blues’ defence.
