Jaeger O’Meara
Carlton Captain Patrick Cripps is setting a ridiculous pace so far this year, with league-high averages of 20.4 contested possessions and 10.4 clearances per game. As the biggest body in Hawthorn’s midfield, O’Meara will likely stand alongside Cripps for the bulk of the day. O’Meara has had an outstanding start to 2019 himself, averaging 28 disposals and a goal per game. For the footy fans who love watching two bulls go head-to-head, we suggest watching this match-up – you will not be disappointed.
Jarryd Roughead
Roughead has somewhat snuck under the radar in putting together a very productive opening five weeks to this season. Having booted two goals in each of his last three outings as well as averaging two contested grabs per game over that period as well, the 32-year-old has provided a consistent level of potency this year. Holding an incredible 76 per cent winning record at UTAS Stadium, the venue has been a happy hunting ground for Roughy over the years and Hawks fans will be hoping that only continues as the Hawks seek their third win of the year this weekend.
Luke Breust
Having managed just one goal in the last fortnight, Luke Breust will be hoping to burst out of the blocks on Sunday with a big performance in front of goal. Breust remains the club leader with eight goals on the year and has still found ways to impact the game, recording a team-high seven inside 50s last week against Geelong, but he will certainly be hoping to put a few more through the big sticks this Sunday.
Matthew Kreuzer
Playing his first game of the year off limited preparation last weekend, Kreuzer had an instant impact for the Blues in their first win of the season. Recording 14 disposals, four marks (two of which were contested), 25 hit-outs and five clearances, the ruckman had an obvious influence and put the rest of the league’s big men on notice. Ben McEvoy is in career-best form and, with capable midfield brigades at both men’s feet, this match-up will certainly be one to watch.
Harry McKay
The only man who had more aerial dominance than Kreuzer last week was Blues young key forward Harry McKay. The 21-year-old is the only player in the competition to have taken more contested marks than McEvoy this season, averaging an enormous 4.4 per game including five in Round 5. The 10th pick in the 2015 draft, McKay has realised his potential in 2019 and has quickly shot to one of the most dangerous forwards in the game given his aerial prowess.
