HAWTHORN has made just the one change for Friday night’s blockbuster clash with Sydney Swans at the MCG.
Four-time premiership star Cyril Rioli returns, as confirmed by Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson on Thursday morning.
Making way for Rioli is second-year Hawk, Daniel Howe.
GM – Football Operations Chris Fagan said it was pleasing to get Rioli back, while Howe was unlucky to make way.
“It’s great to have Cyril back,” Fagan said.
“We were pleased he was able to return to the Northern Territory last week to deal with a family illness, and he’s come back in a really good frame of mind.
“Cyril has trained this week and will be looking forward to Friday night.
“Unfortunately, Dan is the player who misses out on this occasion.”
Howe, yet-to-debut utility Dallas Willsmore and swingman Matt Spangher have been named as the Hawks' three emergencies.
Midfield battle will be critical, says Clarkson
Both sides enter the match with a 6-2 record, with a top four berth up for grabs for the winner. The Swans currently occupy fourth place on the ladder, with the Hawks just percentage behind in sixth.
Hawthorn has enjoyed back-to-back wins – against Fremantle and Richmond – while Sydney had won three consecutive matches prior to an after-the-siren defeat against the Tigers last week.
The Hawks hold a three-two record against the Swans in the sides’ past five matches.
ROUND 9 TEAM
Hawthorn v Sydney
Friday 20 May, 7.50pm
MCG
B: Kaiden Brand, James Frawley, Ben Stratton
HB: Shaun Burgoyne, Josh Gibson, Grant Birchall
C: Isaac Smith, Jordan Lewis, Will Langford
HF: Luke Breust, Tim O’Brien, Jack Gunston
F: Paul Puopolo, James Sicily, Cyril Rioli
Foll: Ben McEvoy, Sam Mitchell, Liam Shiels
Int: Bradley Hill, Taylor Duryea, Jonathon Ceglar, Billy Hartung
Emer: Matt Spangher, Daniel Howe, Dallas Willsmore
In: Cyril Rioli
Out: Daniel Howe (omitted)
