Isaac Smith (Hawthorn)
Isaac Smith continued his great form in Hawthorn’s win over Melbourne, and is now averaging 23 disposals per game in 2016 – an average which increases to 25.6 per game over the past five weeks.
Smith has definitely taken on more responsibility in the midfield in Luke Hodge’s absence, recording 14 clearances over the last five weeks compared to just six clearances in the six games beforehand.
Look for Smith to carry this good form into tonight’s game against Essendon.
Jordan Lewis (Hawthorn)
Hawthorn’s stand-in skipper, Jordan Lewis, has also had a good five-week block, bouncing back from a couple of quiet games earlier in the year to average 28.8 disposals over the past five matches.
His tackling and clearance work has been a real feature, and he will want to continue this into tonight when he again leads the side into battle.
Paul Puopolo (Hawthorn)
Paul Puopolo was in his element last week in the wet, recording 19 disposals, 10 tackles and a goal in a very effective display against the Demons.
The nuggetty forward is on track for a career-best season in terms of goals kicked, and with Essendon’s backline depleted and the roof closed at Etihad, Puopolo will look to add to that tally and possibly his ‘Mark of the Year’ contenders.
David Zaharakis (Essendon)
David Zaharakis was blanketed by the Fremantle midfield last week, going without a possession in the first quarter and finishing with 11 touches at 45 per cent efficiency.
But don’t be fooled – he is a quality player and one of the Bombers’ standouts this season.
If the Hawks don’t pay him enough attention, he could get back to the form which has seen him already record 24-plus disposals on nine occasions in 2016.
Brendon Goddard (Essendon)
Essendon captain Brendon Goddard is having an extremely consistent season, having racked up at least 22 disposals in every game this year.
Having played mostly in defence and through the midfield this season, Hawthorn will need to ensure the ball doesn’t get into his hands too often tonight.
