The title of Shakira’s first hit song “Whenever, Wherever” is a fitting metaphor this week, with the Hawks happy to take on the Cats anytime, any place.
The wherever is GMHBA Stadium, with the Hawks set to travel down the highway for the first time since Round 3 2006. The whenever is 7.50pm this Friday night, with both teams eager to restart their seasons in style following a 12-week hiatus.
Premiership wingman Isaac Smith says the Hawks are embracing the unique set of circumstances.
“It’s one of two or three AFL grounds I haven’t played at yet, so looking forward to getting down there and playing Geelong,” Smith said during his press conference on Monday.
“I think it’s a great concept. We can’t have crowds, so we may as well go and play them down there because we always play them at the ‘G.”
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Aside from no crowds and an unfamiliar stadium, the Hawks will also have to contend with a different shape oval to what they’re used to, with GMHBA Stadium significantly skinnier than the MCG.
Bring it on, says Smith.
“There’s nothing different in particular. Obviously just a few of your patterns running forward and defensively there’s not as much room, so it’ll be interesting to see.
“I’ll watch a bit of tape of Mitch Duncan and see what he does, he seems to play pretty well down there.
Watch Smith’s full press conference below.
