A fast starting Hawthorn has seen off North Melbourne at the MCG, the reigning premiers proving too strong, to win by 39 points.
» Re-live all the action with our live blog
A behemoth first quarter from the Hawks saw them take a 46-point lead into the first break, a mountain that proved too great to climb despite some inspiring play from the Kangaroos.
A much-improved effort after quarter time from the underdogs saw them reel the margin back to 13 points in the third quarter, but the premiers responded and added a few late goals for good measure to record a comfortable win on a crucial day for their season.
Sam Mitchell yet again led the disposal count for the Hawks, but it was Isaac Smith who did the most damage, finishing with 33 touches, 11 marks and seven tackles. Luke Bruest and Brad Hill responded to allegations of recent poor form with wonderful outings more accustomed to their talent.
Robbie Tarrant and Lachie Hansen were steady in defence, but could not contain the brilliance of Cyril Rioli and Paul Puopolo, the duo combining for five goals.
Majak Daw put in one of his better performances at senior level but was disappointing in front of goal, only managing three behinds despite his dominance in the air.
Drew Petrie contributed three goals for the losing side, with Andrew Swallow and Jack Ziebell also solid after the first break.
Hawthorn now breathes a sigh of relief as top spot stays theirs for another week. They travel to Perth next Friday to take on the Eagles in what is potentially their biggest game for the year, with a top four spot and home final on the line.
The Kangaroos’ season only gets worse, with their spot in the eight suddenly in serious doubt. Tough games against Sydney and GWS await – so if the Saints can knock off the Swans later tonight, it could very well be curtains for North.
There’s going to be some very nervous boys at Arden St tonight.
Swannies
Guest
Well my Swans have given North a get out of jail card and they will just cling onto 8th place. But whoever finishes 5th will knock them out in the EF. No bitterness here...just plain facts. I would be pretty upset if Swans lost 8 matches out of 11 and the coach kept persisting with over-rated geriatrics! Swans are showing how it should be done...a perfect blend of youth and experience.
Swanny
Guest
Hey swannies What is your bitterness towards north ., you have had a dig at them abt 20 times this month . Time to show some happiness mate . Get over 1996 swannies
andrew
Guest
its utterly academic. it is curtains for north. its just a matter of whether the blind is drawn at end of round 23, or its drawn in week 1 of the finals. id actually rather save my money and miss the finals, so not really too fussed either way, and the saints fans will get more excited about an 8th finish anyway. north fielded the worst side i have seen the put on the park for several seasons today, including the richmond match in rd 23 last year. hawks just toyed with them as however they pleased. had an extra gear or three whenever they wanted. north and saints have played each other twice this yea, and both play the dogs twice, but the other 3 sides they play twice are: north: swans, hawks, crows saints: demons, carlton, essendon.
Swannies
Guest
As I said last week...North played their Grand Final against the Saints and will not win another game this year. Their percentage will drop under 100 so the chance is their for the Saints to snatch 8th place. A win for the Saints tonight could be the end for North. Any team that loses 10 out of 13 games is masquerading as a finalist.