Two games are left in the 2024 home and away season and, despite playing bottom-of-the-table teams this fortnight, the margin for error remains slim if the Hawks wish to stay in the top eight.
In their final game at the MCG for the home and away season, the boisterous Hawks will face wooden spooners Richmond for the Le Tan Emergency Services Match on Sunday afternoon.
It’s a big milestone game for workhorse Harry Morrison, who will be running out on the field for the 100th time this Sunday. Morrison who spoke to Talking Hawks post-game last week, remarked that the Hawks need to continue to “play their way,” and that statement remains true this weekend.
The Richmond Tigers may have only won two games all season, but that doesn’t mean they deserve to be underestimated. This depleted and demoralised side is closing out the season with nothing to lose, and have everything to gain with the chance to influence the top eight.
They also still boast a host of talent who could prove damaging, including Tim Taranto and Daniel Rioli maintaining solid form all season, who are currently averaging above 20 disposals a game.
The last time they met, it was round 14 for a blockbuster clash at the G where the Hawks spoilt Tigers legend Dustin Martin’s 300th game, defeating Richmond by 48 points.
Despite conceding the first goal of the game to none other than Martin, Hawthorn was dominant all night, particularly out of the centre, where the Hawks midfield doubled their opponents’ centre clearances (14-7).
Hawthorn was also very efficient in the forward 50, operating at 57.4%, which is 8.6% higher than their season average, with nine players kicking majors. Former Tiger, Mabior Chol, had a night to remember, kicking a match-high four goals against his old side.
Hawthorn’s goal this weekend isn’t simply to win. It is to grow their percentage, cement their place in the top eight, and reach finals for the first time since 2018.
Regardless of Hawthorn’s good performance last week against Carlton, coach Sam Mitchell remains humble about the fact there is still a way to go for this young side, stating that they are “far from a finished product” in his press conference on Wednesday.
He also conceded if the Hawks do not win this week, then they simply do not deserve to be in finals; a level-headed stance from the third-year coach.
The Hawks side appears to be unchanged leading into this weekend.
Hawthorn v Richmond
Round 23
Sunday 18 August 2024 • 3:20 PM (AEST)
MCG, Melbourne • Wurundjeri