AN unchanged team for the first time in 2016?
Not likely.
Hawthorn has made changes for every game this season, and that trend looks to continue for Friday night’s match against the Sydney Swans, with at least one change on the cards.
Four-time premiership star Cyril Rioli is a good chance to return, according to teammate Liam Shiels, after missing the Hawks’ win against Fremantle due to a family illness.
Whether the Hawks consider any other changes, after a relatively injury-free clash against the Dockers remains to be seen.
Grant Birchall is expected to be fine after copping a knock against the Dockers, while a clean injury bill was reported otherwise.
At VFL level, it may be a tough ask to bring anyone in, with a five-day break between Box Hill’s two-point loss to Werribee and Hawthorn’s clash with the Swans this Friday night.
However, there were a number of strong contributors.
Teia Miles continued his strong form, making an impact in attack and defence, while Dallas Willsmore found plenty of the ball for the fifth game running.
Key defenders Matt Spangher and Kurt Heatherley also impressed, while Kieran Lovell had a big final quarter when the game was in the balance.
Lovell and Angus Litherland both had their moments, as they push for senior recalls.