Major Trouble for Lyon and His Players

Posted on May 12, 2016June 7, 2018 | Posted by Digby Beacham

Hawthorn v Fremantle

Saturday, Aurora Stadium 12.10pm

There are tough interstate assignments. And then there is Hawthorn in Launceston. The Hawks are extremely difficult to beat anywhere, but become an ever harder nut to crack when they step out at Aurora Stadium. Granted, St Kilda nearly upset the premiers there earlier this season, but it would be a major shock if the Dockers were able to fully extend Alastair Clarkson’s side.

Ross Lyon made it known on Tuesday that veteran forward Matthew Pavlich wouldn’t be making the trip to Tasmania, further highlighting the enormity of the task confronting the winless Dockers. Fremantle were solid enough against Greater Western Sydney and might be aided in their bid to dirty up this contest by inclement weather, but the skill disparity between the two sides is stark. Hawthorn’s ability to separate defences and spread the ball with their elite kicking skills is unrivalled. Conversely, many Dockers players wouldn’t hit water if they fell out of a boat.

Fremantle are the third-lowest scoring team this year and that spells major trouble for Lyon and his players, who will know that any missed opportunities will be punished at the other end. Paul Puopolo has taken his game to another level, a frightening prospect when you consider he roams the forward 50m alongside Luke Breust and Jack Gunston. No Cyril Rioli (personal reasons) helps Fremantle, but it must be remembered the Hawks won the corresponding match last season by 72 points and Fremantle are light years away from that level at present.

VERDICT: Hawthorn by 59 points

1st Goal Scorer: Luke Breust

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