What a way to kick off a new campaign; Hawthorn's 2021 season will commence with an away clash against traditional rivals Essendon under Saturday night lights.
The match will be played at 7.25pm on Saturday March 20 at Marvel Stadium - an exciting fixture for both clubs' members and supporters alike.
The occasion will be particularly special for Victorian fans; it will mark the Hawks' first official game in Melbourne since the club's four-point win over North Melbourne in Round 4 this year, and quite possibly the first game Victorians are able to watch live since late 2019.
The Hawks and Bombers have only met once in Round 1 this century - a 2017 clash that fell in Essendon's favour. However, the Hawks' recent Round 1 showings should be a cause for optimism with Alastair Clarkson's men saluting in the opener in each of the three years since.
This is the first taste of what is sure to be a thrilling 2021 fixture. Stay tuned for more information to be revealed in the coming days.
See the full AFL Round 1 fixture below.
Thursday Mar 18
Richmond v Carlton, MCG, 7.25pm
Friday Mar 19
Collingwood v Western Bulldogs, MCG, 7.50pm
Saturday Mar 20
Melbourne v Fremantle, MCG, 1.45pm
Adelaide v Geelong, Adelaide Oval, 4.35pm
Essendon v Hawthorn, Marvel Stadium, 7.25pm
Brisbane v Sydney, The Gabba, 7.45pm
Sunday Mar 21
North Melbourne v Port Adelaide, Marvel Stadium, 1.10pm
GWS v St Kilda, GIANTS Stadium, 3.20pm
West Coast v Gold Coast, Optus Stadium, 6.10pm
All times listed in AEST.
