To say the cards were stacked against the Hawks in the 2001 semi-final against Port Adelaide would be an almighty understatement.

Peter Schwab’s side had the unenviable task of taking on the Power at their Football Park fortress in front of the infamously intimidating local crowd.

Port Adelaide had finished third and were one of the in-form sides of the competitions, having posted six consecutive wins to round out the home and away season.

There was a global scale to the story of the game too, with the world still left in shock in the aftermath of 9-11 which had happened just four days earlier.

Listen as Hawthorn’s match-winner on the night John Barker recounts what was one of the club’s unlikeliest victories.

We assure you recollections of this match will bring good memories flooding back to you so don’t miss out!

Listen below or search 'Golden Years' on your chosen podcast provider.

02:48

Golden Years Podcast: John Barker and the 2001 final

"It is a sensational win against all the odds."John Barker kicks an important goal to give Hawthorn the lead in the semi final at AAMI Stadium. It was only the second time a Victorian team had travelled interstate to win a final.

 

 

 

 

 

Only just discovered Golden Years? On our last episode, we caught up with Sam Mitchell to discuss the tackle that saved more than one career. Listen to episode 3 here.