Injuries to Cyril Rioli and Paul Puopolo certainly dampened what was an impressive Hawthorn win on the weekend. 

Addressing the media on Tuesday morning, Vice Captain Liam Shiels said that while the injured duo represents a big loss, Hawthorn’s game plan is developed in a such a way that no individual is irreplaceable. 

“Obviously it is a big blow,” Shiels said.

“They are obviously two quality players in our line up and the amount of pressure they put on is extraordinary. 

“But Clarko has always had the motto, ‘lose a soldier, replace with another one’.

“Our game plan is based around just coming in and playing your role.

“There are a number of guys performing well at Box Hill, so two blokes get their opportunity to come in this week and play a role for us." 

Read: Poppy and Cyril set for stint on sidelines

Shiels himself found season-best form on Sunday, leading the ground in disposals (31) and tackles (14). 

The 26-year-old said it was pleasing to put together a strong four-quarter performance, after feeling underwhelmed with his previous game. 

“It was nice to get little bit more of the footy. 

“To be honest, I was pretty disappointed with the way I performed against the Tigs, so I wanted to have a good week on the track and perform well against Melbourne on the weekend.”

After consistently being ranked among the AFL’s top 20 in total tackles over the past five years, Shiels has started 2018 in a similar vein – averaging 9.3 tackles and ranking first around the league.

“I base my game on doing those little one-percenters, tackles, just getting a smother in. 

“That’s probably what’s got me a game for a lot of the year so it’s definitely something I pride myself on.”

Watch Shiels’ full press conference here.