SUMMARY
This is a massive game for the Hawks as they look to bounce back from last week's surprise loss to Melbourne. Win and they stay a game clear on top; lose and fifth place beckons and their hopes of getting back into the top four would appear slim. So expect a ferocious response against a side there has been plenty of niggle with in the past. The Kangas enjoy serving it up to Hawthorn and they also need a win to book their finals berth once and for all. Their form line against top-eight sides has been lousy all year, but a win here would re-establish their credentials as a finals contender.
WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Saturday, August 13, 2.10pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R13, 2016, Hawthorn 14.9 (93) d North Melbourne 11.18 (84) at Etihad Stadium
R5, 2015, Hawthorn 19.16 (130) d North Melbourne 10.10 (70) at Etihad Stadium
R16, 2014, North Melbourne 16.12 (108) d Hawthorn 13.10 (88) at Etihad Stadium
R22, 2013, Hawthorn 17.15 (117) d North Melbourne 15.13 (103) at Etihad Stadium
R5, 2013, Hawthorn 14.15 (99) d North Melbourne 13.18 (96) at the MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. In round 13, the Kangaroos had 70 more disposals, took 15 more marks, had six more scoring shots and took the ball inside 50 seven more times but Hawthorn still won. James Sicily kicked five goals for the Hawks.
2. If the Hawks lose it will be the first time since early in 2014 they will have lost consecutive games and the first time since early in 2010 they will have lost back-to-back games at the MCG.
3. Hawthorn has dominated North Melbourne recently, winning six of the past seven matches. Four games since 2011 have been decided by less than three goals.
4. One advantage for the Kangaroos might be centre clearances, ranked equal third with 13.5 per game. Hawthorn is equal eighth with an average of 12.9.
5. This is a rare visit to the MCG for North Melbourne - the first in 2016. In comparison, Hawthorn has played eight times there this season.
6. North Melbourne ruckman Todd Goldstein has 595.6 Schick AFL Player Ratings points and is ranked No.5 in the AFL.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Luke Hodge.
Hawthorn supporters fear their champion skipper might be approaching football mortality, and if a crunch late-season game on the MCG against a heated rival doesn't bring out his best, then nothing will.
PREDICTION: Hawthorn by eight points
