WHILE the Hawks face former teammate Lance Franklin for the second time, Saturday night’s clash between the Hawks and Swans will see an intense battle fought in the midfield.
Franklin (2.7) and Kurt Tippett (4.0) were a huge threat in a 19-point win in Round 8 but it was the Swans' on-ballers who sliced open the Hawks that night.
Former Hawk Josh Kennedy twisted the knife, combining with Dan Hannebery, Kieren Jack and Luke Parker for a match-defining 131 disposals and four goals.
"They've got a really good midfield. They nutted us a bit last time we played them… so it will be a really good challenge," Hawthorn wingman Isaac Smith told AFL.com.au.
"I know the boys are all looking forward to it.
"I wasn't here when Josh was here but since he's been in Sydney he's been a great player for them.
"He wins so much contested footy so I guess just trying to stop his influence around the contest (will be important). He knows how to win the pill."
Hawthorn sorely missed Luke Hodge at the coalface last time against the Swans, while speedster Bradley Hill will be a welcome inclusion for the clash between the League-leaders and third-placed Hawks.
Hill has shrugged-off a knee complaint that has kept him sidelined for the past two matches and trained strongly on Monday.
While he will still need to pass a fitness test on Thursday before being declared fit to play, his comeback should ease some of the pressure for outside run on Smith.
Smith has been a prime target for taggers after an outstanding season averaging 23 disposals and a goal per game.
"Just having 'Hilly' there it creates so much run and he lets other blokes off the leash," Smith said.
"They can go back to their normal role. He's a vital part of our team, like every player.
"He's got so much enthusiasm and he just enjoys being out there. It will be great to have him back."
Last weekend's bye came at the right time for Hawthorn, who will also regain Josh Gibson (torn pectoral) for the first time since the last meeting with the Swans.
Gibson is likely to get first crack at Franklin, who has rocketed up the Coleman Medal leaderboard to third with 47 goals and is being touted as a Brownlow Medal chance.
