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Sydney Swans returns to the MCG for an enticing grand final rematch with Hawthorn. The stage is set for another fierce contest with both teams coming off strong wins last week. We’ll have live scores and commentary on the action from 7.40pm AEST.
Despite both teams dropping only four premiership points so far this season. Hawthorn has really had to earn its wins.
After a first round loss to Geelong, the Hawks have overcome the likes of West Coast, Collingwood, Fremantle, North Melbourne and Adelaide – all teams that played finals in 2012.
Sydney’s ride has been comparatively easy, playing four games in Sydney and facing only one team that currently sits in the top eight.
They’ve also played away games in Wellington and Bellerive – so this will be the first time this year that they can expect a hostile reception.
Sydney are without Rhyce Shaw, Alex Johnson (season) and Lewis Roberts-Thompson, and their defensive stocks will undoubtedly be tested by the Hawks’ forward line.
Adding to their woes is the loss of Shane Mumford, who pulled up sore after Thursday’s final session.
Hawthorn are without Matt Suckling and Ryan Schoenmakers for the season, and will be eagerly awaiting the return of the mercurial Cyril Rioli,
The Swans should fear a Buddy backlash after the Hawks’ talisman has been put under the spotlight this week after being held goalless in consecutive weeks for the first time since 2005.
The last time Lance Franklin faced this much on-field scrutiny was only a year ago when his accuracy in front of goal had his braver critics scoffing.
On that occasion he hauled the media off his back by kicking 13 goals against North Melbourne in Tasmania.
The Swans will be conscious of this reaction, and have made it very clear this week that they’re not interested in reminding Buddy of his barren run.
The midfield contest will even have neutral spectators licking their lips, such are the riches that both Hawthorn and Sydney boast.
Hawthorn will be looking to match Sydney for contested possessions and hoping that one of Sydney’s best contested-ball winners, Josh Kennedy, doesn’t further traumatise the club that let him go.
Watch out for Dan Hanneberry and Luke Hodge in particular, both were excellent last week and their run and efficiency with the ball could be key in what is bound to be a close contest.
I think this will be another gruelling struggle that’s decided in the last five minutes.
Sydney by two points.
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