Here’s everything you need to know before the Hawks meet the Dockers tonight.
Match details:
When: 8.40pm AEST (6.40pm WST) Monday 10th August
Where: Optus Stadium
Broadcast: Fox Footy, Kayo, AFL Live App
Read: One change for the Hawks
The overview:
The Hawks remain the only team undefeated on the Optus Stadium turf. They will be looking to retain that title when they take on the Dockers tonight, who come in full of confidence following last week’s narrow win over the Pies. Both teams are in a tight tussle at the lower lend of the ladder, with the 14th-placed Hawks one win ahead of Fremantle in 15th position.
Oppo analysis:
Fremantle has made some strong strides in the last month. It took until Round 5 for the Dockers to taste victory, but since then the club has managed three victories from its last five outings, including wins against current top eight sides Collingwood and St Kilda.
They will be missing damaging mid Michael Walters (hamstring), who currently leads his teammates in disposals and clearances. Matt Taberner leads his team’s goalkicking count with 16, and comes in fresh off a four-goal performance against the Pies.
Ones to watch:
The Hawks have made just one change, with veteran Shaun Burgoyne (hamstring) replaced by up-and-coming Irishman Conor Nash. Nash demonstrated his pace and creativity last year, playing 14 of a possible 22 games, but is yet to be tried in 2020. Hawks fans will be hoping the 22-year-old can take another step forward towards achieving his promising potential.
Last week we saw Jarman Impey return for his first game in 12 months. He demonstrated flashes of brilliances on return, including a beautiful running goal from a tight angle. The best of Impey is certainly yet to come – keep an eye on this man as he builds back his confidence.
You can never discount Brownlow Medallist Nat Fyfe. He returned last week following a three-week hiatus due to a hamstring injury, and was among Fremantle’s best players, registering 24 disposals, eight clearances and a goal to help sink the Pies. Alastair Clarkson and the Hawks’ coaching box will be keeping a close eye on his influence.
