HAWTHORN’S finals hopes have received a big boost after a strong 25-point win over Brisbane on Sunday afternoon.

The Lions jumped out of the gates strongly but the Hawks managed to get the game on their terms from the second quarter onwards, running away to a 9.11 (65) to 6.4 (40) victory.

HAWKS V LIONS Full match details and stats

On a windy day in Dingley, Hawthorn was able to get more bang for buck when it was kicking with the wind throughout the clash which ultimately gave it the upper hand. 

The Hawks were the superior side at the contest, dominating around the coalface to win both the clearance (+15) and contested possession count (+15). 

Hawthorn forward Aine McDonagh (20 disposals, eight score involvements, six marks) jumped to the top of the competition goalkicking charts with another haul of three goals, proving a real handful for Brisbane’s defence.

McDonagh’s goal nous around the big sticks, unique athleticism and ability to capitalise on her chances makes her a real force to be reckoned with in the front half for Daniel Webster’s side.

Star Hawks ruck Lucy Wales was also outstanding once more, continuing her career-best season with 14 disposals, six tackles and a goal.

Wales, who is currently equal sixth in the competition for coaches’ votes, was one of Hawthorn’s best in her milestone 50th match, giving the on-ball brigade first use while also acting as a key marking target around the ground. 

Her ability to drift behind the ball and help out the defence is also a key strength of her game, and the sky is the limit for the 23-year-old Hawk.

Hawthorn midfielder Jasmine Fleming (19 disposals) had another solid display, working well in tandem with stand-in skipper Eliza West (17 disposals, seven clearances). 

Elsewhere, young on-baller Daisy Flockart (10 disposals, eight tackles, seven clearances) gave the Hawks a real presence around the ball, while livewire forward Poppy Stockwell (15 disposals, 318 metres gained) provided a spark in the front half.

For the Lions, Belle Dawes worked hard all afternoon to finish with 23 disposals, nine tackles and 393 metres gained, while captain Bre Koenen (22 disposals, eight marks, 482 metres gained) led from the front and tried to spark her side.

The loss resigns the Lions to a win-loss record of 2-7, while Hawthorn has moved back inside the top eight with just three rounds remaining in the home and away season.

Ashmore joins the 100 Club
Hawthorn veteran Kaitlyn Ashmore is the newest member of the 100-game club. A foundation player, Ashmore began her AFLW career at Brisbane before moving to Victoria to become an inaugural Kangaroo. Now a Hawthorn fan favourite, Ashmore’s leadership, versatility and speed is a real asset for Daniel Webster and his coaching staff. Her experience and footy knowledge mean she acts as somewhat of an on-field coach and the 34-year-old is one of the most well-respected and admired players across the competition. Ashmore provided a moment for the highlights reel during the second term, with a classy finish from the boundary line sending the Kennedy Community Centre into raptures.

Lions show plenty of fight
While the Lions clearly haven’t had the sort of season they had hoped for this year, the effort and intensity in which Craig Starcevich’s side continue to play has to be commended. Driven by the club’s leaders, Brisbane fought tooth and nail until the last whistle, giving finals hopefuls Hawthorn a real shake. Having made the past four Grand Finals, things have looked a little bit different at Brighton Homes Arena this year, but the spirit that the group has shown, as well as the improvement of a bunch of youngsters, has certainly given fans something to smile about.

Up next
The Hawks will look to continue their finals push when they head to Henson Park to take on the Giants on Sunday afternoon, while the Lions host Port Adelaide on Saturday.

HAWTHORN    1.1    6.4    8.6    9.11 (65)
BRISBANE       3.1    3.1    6.4    6.4 (40)

GOALS
Hawthorn: McDonagh 3, Wales, Eardley, Ashmore, Williamson, Martin, Bodey
Brisbane: O’Dwyer, Long, C.Svarc, Davidson, Hickie, Conway

BEST
Hawthorn: McDonagh, Wales, Fleming, West, Stockwell, Flockart
Brisbane: Dawes, Koenen, Anderson, Mullins, Postlethwaite

INJURIES
Hawthorn: Nil
Brisbane: Nil

LATE CHANGES
Hawthorn: Mikaylah Antony (managed) replaced in the selected side by Elli Symonds.
Brisbane: Nil

Crowd: TBC at Kennedy Community Centre