The VFLW Hawks remain undefeated from 10 games after securing a thrilling draw in their top-of-the-table clash with Essendon on Sunday.

Hawthorn started the game convincingly with some vital centre clearances, but it was the Bombers who looked stronger in the early stages, taking the lead at the end of the first term.

The intensity notched up a level in the second quarter before Abbey Holmes put the Hawks on the scoreboard.

The Hawks faced a sour end to the term with Kristen Hay and Olivia Meagher both coming off the ground with injuries, leaving the brown and gold down two troops for the remainder of the game.

This gave the Bombers an edge after halftime, as they powered forward to boot two more goals and stretch their lead.

But it didn’t damper the Hawks’ spirits as the girls came out firing in the fourth quarter.

It was Nadia Von Bertouch who began the comeback, pushing forward and converting a much-needed goal.

Emma Humphries then pumped into gear and brought the margin back to just six points after a crucial major of her own.

Then in the final two minutes, Jessie Williams became a hero when she slotted a goal off the ground to level the scores.

A nail-biting finish led to Essendon youngster Drew Ryan having a set shot after the siren on a difficult angle.

After the ball fell short, the Hawks celebrated a courageous comeback and ended Essendon’s winning streak in the process.

Holmes was crucial throughout the game with 23 disposals along with her goal, while Isabelle Porter dominated with a game-high 29 possessions and nine marks.

Nicole Garner was at her bruising best with eight tackles while Sarah Perrott won the hit-out count with 18.

The Hawks are back at home on Saturday at 11am to take on Darebin in the penultimate round of the season.

HAWTHORN: 0.2 | 1.4 | 1.4 | 4.7 (31)

ESSENDON: 1.2 | 1.4 | 3.7 | 4.7 (31)

Goals: Holmes, Von Bertouch, Humphries, Williams