Beware latte-drinking Swans, Gibson says

BEWARE the latte-drinking Bondi millionaires.

That’s Hawks defender Josh Gibson’s message ahead of Saturday night’s clash against Sydney Swans at ANZ Stadium.

Swans key forwards Lance Franklin and Kurt Tippett both returned to action against the Brisbane Lions on Sunday, kicking three goals each on their returns from one-week suspensions.

Gibson, who is still good friends with former Hawk Franklin, said the Hawks would need to be wary of the prodigious forward.

“I heard he kicked a couple of rippers in the last quarter (against the Lions),” he said.

“They said the Bondi millionaires kicked about six between them, so they’ll just be sitting back talking about those drinking lattes."

But all jokes aside, Gibson said the Hawks’ defence would need to be at the top of its game.

“Bud’s not just for one individual – he’s too talented a player to just leave it to one guy,” he said.

“He’s always a tough opponent and he’ll be a big challenge for our back six.”

Franklin, who was held goalless by now-injured Hawks defender James Frawley when the clubs last met in Round 8, is just two goals shy of kicking his 700^th AFL career goal.

Gibson said he was expecting to line-up against his mate on field at some stage – and would likely catch up off-field as well.

“I know Bud’s a latte drinker – I’ve just stepped out of school there and put Tippett in that category, so Tippo, if you don’t drink lattes, I’m sorry mate,” he said.

“I’m a strong skinny latte, three-quarter full – thanks Bud.”