The stats can lie

The statistics would suggest a different result to what transpired on Saturday afternoon at the MCG. Hawthorn won the counts for disposals, clearances, inside 50s, contested possessions and had more scoring shots than Geelong. It all contributed to what was a heart-breaking loss for the Hawks after the side had done so much right to put themselves in a winning position. 

Read: Match report Cats v Hawks

Hawks’ stats king continues his reign

Tom Mitchell extended his new record streak of consecutive 30-plus disposal games, with Saturday’s match marking his 13th on the trot. The 24-year old burst out of the blocks in the opening term, collecting three disposals in the first 38 seconds including the game’s first goal. He finished the first quarter with 19 touches, setting himself well on the way to his final tally of 43. With another stellar performance, Mitchell progressed his season disposal average to a ridiculous 36.1 possessions per game. The former Swan also continued his run of goal-kicking, booting two goals to make it five games in a row he has kicked at least one goal. Mitchell’s midfield running mate Liam Shiels was also a significant contributor, as the vice-captain recorded a career-high 12 clearances for the Hawks.

Danger alert

But despite the strong performances from a number of Hawks, the day ultimately belonged to reigning Brownlow Medallist Patrick Dangerfield. Since crossing to Geelong last year, the 27-year old has made a habit of tormenting the Hawks and Saturday’s effort could well have been his best yet. Dangerfield played the majority of the game in the forward line, after suffering an injury to his foot following a collision with Hawks skipper Jarryd Roughead. Taken straight down to the rooms, it seemed as if Danger’s day was over after less than 20 minutes of play. But the star Cat would return, kicking 5.6 from his 20 disposals and 12 marks (four contested and eight inside 50), in a performance that demanded three Brownlow votes. 

Clarkson matches a club record

Another storyline that played out on Saturday was Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson equalling Hawthorn’s coaching great John Kennedy Snr for games coached. Leading the Hawks for the 299th time on Saturday, Clarkson now sets his sights on becoming the club’s most experienced coach of all-time and the first man to coach the club in 300 games, when the Hawks take on Fremantle this Saturday night.

Watch: Clarko's post match presser