Where and When: NT Thunder at Box Hill City Oval, May 12, 11:30am.
Round 15, 2018 saw the Hawks play against the NT Thunder at TIO Stadium in one of their most important games of the season. It was their first and only interstate match for the year, with the Hawks playing to secure a finals spot.
Hawthorn held the lead at every break and never looked in doubt, despite the Thunder’s best efforts. With impressive performances from Hawks players Rebecca Beeson and Phoebe McWilliams, the girls were able to come away with a 25-point win.
Looking ahead to Round 1, Hawthorn will host the NT Thunder at Box Hill City Oval in the club’s season opener for 2019.
During the pre-season, Thunder picked up a few new recruits that will add strength to their team, including Fremantle AFLW player Jade de Melo, who recently played in the 2018 WAWFL All Stars side. The small forward is known for her speed and will be one to watch.
Along with new recruit de Melo, the Thunder have also resigned player Kristy Irvine, who was one of the most impressive performers in the Round 15 game last season. The midfielder has been a stand-out player not only at VFLW level but at the NTFL too.
Coming off a big pre-season, the Hawks will be focusing on shutting down these Thunder players and demonstrating the skills of their new recruits and returning AFLW players.
Beeson played a massive role in the defeat over the Thunder in 2018, being named best on ground for the match. She will be a major focus in the Hawks midfield across the season, and particularly in this Round 1 clash; the 22-year-old is coming off an impressive AFLW season for GWS in which she made the transition from a forward to a midfield role.
Another player to watch is Hawks’ new recruit Talia Radan. The key defender is an important addition to the team and will look to demonstrate her AFLW experience though her competitiveness and strength.
The Hawks will be aiming to start their premiership defence off with a win on Sunday, but NT Thunder will no doubt be hungry to redeem themselves after last season’s disappointing finals campaign.
