The Changes
Hawthorn
In – Frawley, Shiels, Puopolo, Hartung, Burton
Out – Stratton (pectoral) Sicily (susp.), O’Brien, O’Rourke, Heatherley (all omitted)
North Melbourne
In – Hansen, Nahas
Out – Brown (knee), Thompson (adductor)
The Form
Hawthorn’s decade-long winning streak over Melbourne came to an end last week, the Demons finishing strongly to run out 29-point winners over the reigning premier.
Cyril Rioli was the shining light for the Hawks up forward with four goals and a game-high 12 tackles, while Luke Hodge and Sam Mitchell both collected 27 disposals each.
The Hawks will be without defender Ben Stratton for three weeks with a torn pectoral muscle, while James Sicily will also miss this week after being suspended for striking.
North Melbourne is clinging onto eighth spot on the ladder and fighting a mounting injury toll which now includes key forward Ben Brown and defender Scott Thompson who will both miss Saturday’s match.
The Kangaroos couldn’t find a way through the Western Bulldogs’ defence last week, kicking just two goals in the first half and finishing with seven for the game.
Jamie Macmillan has hit a purple patch of form over the last few weeks providing some run and carry for the Roos, and they will be hoping the combination of Majak Daw and Drew Petrie can prove effective.
Stats That Matter
The Hawks have got to get their kicking boots on this week. Hawthorn has kicked a combine 37.47 over the last three weeks, so they need to take their chances in front of goal against the Kangaroos.
Key Player
James Frawley’s inclusion this week is particularly important given how important North Melbourne’s key forwards are to their side. If ‘Chip’ can nullify one of their tall weapons, it gives the Hawks the chance to limit the Roos’ scoring.
It’s A Big Week For…
Ryan Burton will become the seventh Hawthorn debutant this season after showing some good form in the VFL. A medium-sized forward with good hands, hopefully this is the start of a long career in the brown and gold.
Odd Fact
The Hawks have lost one of their last five home and away games every year for the last four years. Was last week a good omen?
Final Thoughts
This is a massive game in deciding the fate of Hawthorn’s premiership defence. A win keeps them on track for a top-two finish.
