Another week, another challenge, and another chance for Hawthorn to make a statement on how far they have come this season. Round 18 sees Hawthorn face the in-form Fremantle Dockers at UTAS Stadium; Hawthorn’s home away from home.
Fremantle has been a bogey team for Hawthorn for the past five years, with the Dockers beating the Hawks in their past six encounters. The last time Hawthorn beat Fremantle was back in 2019 when they trumped them by 31 points down in Launceston.
What’s more, Fremantle isn’t a team put off by travel, having won five away games, including a win against Sydney at the SCG back in round 16.
Last time they met Hawthorn fell to the Dockers in round 24, last season, losing by 37 points. Turnovers were a deciding factor in this game, with Hawthorn turning the ball over 11 more times. Fremantle’s tackling pressure also played an important role, with the Dockers laying 64 tackles for the game; 29 more than Hawthorn.
The player to watch from the opposition is forward Josh Treacy, last week’s MVP against Richmond. Treacy scored five goals from 15 disposals and nine marks in a clinic against the depleted Tigers. A close match-up from defender Sam Frost should limit Treacy’s influence down back.
Midfielders Andrew Brayshaw and Caleb Serong continued their strong form last week, registering 62 disposals between them. Both Brayshaw and Serong were important players in their win against Hawthorn last year, last time amassing 32 and 33 disposals each. Such dominance suggests a tag may be required here, however, one was used last time against Serong, but only for a brief period in the game. That role belonged to Finn Maginness, who has been named as an emergency this week.
Captain James Sicily and forward Calsher Dear are very welcome additions to the squad for the trip down to Tasmania, with Jack Gunston taking a week off under management and defender Seamus Mitchell making way for midfielder Josh Ward. Sicily should provide structure and leadership down back, while Dear is expected to help provide a tall target and forward pressure in unlucky Mitchell Lewis’ stead.
Bookies have this game pegged in Fremantle’s favour. However, Hawthorn might just be due for a win against the Dockers.
Time will tell this Saturday afternoon.
Round 18: Hawthorn vs Fremantle
Saturday 13 July 2024 • 1:45 PM (AEST)
UTAS Stadium, Launceston, Palawa
