Hawthorn Coach Alastair Clarkson says the side has faltered at costly times throughout the opening month of the season. 

The Hawks have found themselves in winning positions in every game so far, but the four-time premiership coach said the side's 2-2 record could have been even stronger had it not been for certain lapses. 

"We haven't been tough enough for long enough in key moments of games over the last two or three weeks," Clarkson said on Sunday.

"That has cost us games.   

"If we're not tough enough for long enough against the Cats, we're going to be in a bit of strife."

The Hawks host the Cats at the MCG at 3.20pm on Monday.