The Changes
Hawthorn In – Langford, O’Brien, Heatherley
Out –
Richmond In –Lambert, Conca, Drummond, Lennon
Out – Deledio
The Form
Hawthorn has been building into some good form over its last four matches, with wins over North Melbourne, Gold Coast, Port Adelaide and the Sydney Swans.
The Hawks had a terrific win on the road last Thursday against the Swans, with their big-name players standing up when it mattered most.
Sam Mitchell had 37 touches while vice-captain Jordan Lewis collected 26 of his own, and Shaun Burgoyne was huge in the last quarter when the game was on the line.
Richmond meanwhile have already been ruled out of September action this year, and are now focussing on getting games into their younger players, such as Daniel Rioli, Connor Menadue and Oleg Markov.
The Tigers got over the line against a plucky Essendon side last week, largely thanks to a 43-possession, two-goal game from midfielder Dustin Martin.
Brett Deledio wasn’t sighted after half time with a calf complaint and is out of the Tigers' squad.
Stats That Matter
Richmond’s average points per win (102) compared to loss (73.8) this season is stark. If the Hawks can keep Richmond to around ten goals for the game on Sunday, they give themselves every chance of getting the job done.
Key Player
James Frawley was instrumental in Hawthorn’s win last week, keeping Lance Franklin goalless for the first time in 2016. The Tigers have some key forwards in good form, so Frawley will need to bring his A-game again.
It’s A Big Week For…
Last week’s game against the Swans signalled a return to form for wingman Bradley Hill, who collected 25 touches and a goal in what was easily his best performance in 2016. The challenge now is to keep his good form rolling.
Odd Fact
This is the second-consecutive milestone game Sam Mitchell has played against Richmond, after playing his 250th against the Tigers in Round 6, 2014 which the Hawks won by 66 points.
Final Thoughts
After going a game clear on top of the ladder, the Hawks will be keen to continue building on the solid month of football they’ve produced.
