The Changes
Updated Friday 24 June at 5pm
TEAM: Hodge, Brand return for Hawks
OPPOSITION: Hallahan among three inclusions for Suns
The Form
It’s no secret the Gold Coast Suns have been decimated by injury in 2016, cruelling their chances of contending for a top eight spot.
After winning their first three games, the Suns’ have gone on to drop their next nine.
However, with some key players coming back from injury, the Suns showed some promise in their last game against Richmond, staying with the Tigers for the first three quarters before fading in the last quarter.
Having the bye last week will ensure the Suns are fresh for their Tassie trip to face the Hawks.
Hawthorn enjoyed arguably its best win for 2016 last week, accounting for a fiery North Melbourne side.
The Hawks kept their nerve in front of goal on the night, which proved the major difference between the teams.
James Sicily bobbed up with five goals to earn a NAB Rising Star nomination, while Cyril Rioli and speedster Billy Hartung also kicked multiple goals as the Hawks continue to just find a way to win close games against quality opposition.
Stats That Matter
Of the 270 disposals the Hawks racked up last week, the vast majority were kicks.
The reigning premiers had 173 possessions by foot, meaning they kicked the ball 28 per cent more than they handballed. Will we see a continuation of this against the Gold Coast?
Key Player
Jack Gunston was unusually quiet last week, going goalless for just the second time in 2016. The Hawks will want a return to form from their key forward – who has had an exceptional season to date - this week against the Suns.
It’s A Big Week For…
It’s remarkable to think James Frawley isn’t being talked up as an All Australian contender, but he will get a chance to put his name forward again this week when he lines up against red hot Suns forward Tom Lynch.
Odd Fact
Hawk Luke Breust is the only player at Hawthorn who has played both his 50th and 100th games against the Gold Coast Suns.
Final Thoughts
Although the Gold Coast have had their injury struggles, this could be a danger game for the Hawks and they will need to be switched on from the first bounce.
