AFL

ANALYSIS Opposition Analysis | Round 17 – Geelong v Hawthorn

03/07/2024 Raymond 0

On Saturday, the Hawks are set to return to GMHBA Stadium for a crucial match with significant implications as the season enters its final stretch. Hawthorn, despite infrequent visits to Kardinia Park in recent years, arrives in strong form, having won seven of their last eight games. Their success has been anchored by dominant performances in clearances, led by midfield stalwarts James Worpel and Jai Newcombe, both instrumental in their recent victories. Geelong, meanwhile, seeks to build on a rebound win against Essendon and must strategize to counter Hawthorn’s effective midfield and distribution tactics, particularly focusing on limiting the impact of key players like Karl Amon and Massimo D’Ambrosio.

Hot Hawks still have work to do: coach Mitchell

30/06/2024 Raymond 0

Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell believes it is too soon to consider his team among the AFL’s top contenders. However, he is optimistic that with continued confidence and by avoiding complacency, they will soon reach that level. Despite currently being 13th on the ladder, Hawthorn is only half a win behind the eighth-placed Brisbane Lions and just one win away from fifth-placed Geelong. The Hawks recently achieved their fifth consecutive victory and their seventh win in the last eight games with a commanding 61-point victory over West Coast in Perth. Mitchell emphasized the importance of maintaining confidence without becoming complacent, stating, “We deserve to feel confident, but that doesn’t give you the right to be complacent.”

West Coast Eagles star Elliot Yeo set to play as mystery remains around Hawthorn tagger Finn Maginness

29/06/2024 Raymond 0

West Coast are showing their support for star player Elliot Yeo, who is expected to play against Hawthorn despite the recent passing of his father earlier in the week. The team named Yeo for the Sunday clash at Optus Stadium, allowing him ample time to decide if he felt ready to take the field following his father Craig’s death on Monday night. Although the final decision could be made on the morning of the game, the Eagles have listed all three of their emergencies—Andrew Gaff, Harry Edwards, and Jack Hutchinson—to play in the WAFL against Swan Districts earlier in the day.

Coach Adam Simpson emphasized Yeo’s autonomy in deciding whether to play, given the tragic circumstances. “We’re really trying to respect the decision he’s going through which is tragic,” Simpson said. He mentioned that Yeo had been at the club for the Captain’s Run and would be given until the last minute to decide. Simpson stressed that the choice was entirely up to Yeo, considering his emotional state and family matters.

The Menacing Hawk is back! Retro Guernsey unveiled

20/06/2024 Raymond 0

Hawthorn has unveiled its highly anticipated 2024 Retro Guernsey, with the Menacing Hawk design emerging as the fan-favorite choice. This iconic jersey, originally worn during the club’s away games from 2011 to 2014, was once sported by Hawthorn greats including Sam Mitchell, Luke Hodge, Lance ‘Buddy’ Franklin, and Jordan Lewis. Now, the current-day Hawks are set to pay homage as they prepare to revive the Menacing Hawk for their Retro Round clash against Collingwood on Saturday, 20 July at the MCG.

Sicily earns maximum coaches’ votes as Hawks dominate

17/06/2024 Raymond 0

James Sicily has become the fourth Hawk in as many weeks to earn maximum coaches’ votes, joining Will Day, Dylan Moore, and James Worpel in receiving accolades for his outstanding performance. Sicily’s contribution was pivotal in Hawthorn’s commanding 48-point victory over Richmond at the MCG, where he amassed 33 disposals, including 28 kicks, secured 15 marks, and made 10 critical intercept possessions. His efficiency stood at an impressive 81.8%, contributing to 881 metres gained throughout the match.