Footy Wrap: Hawks Soar while Star Pies Sidelined in Injury Blow

Brownlow favourite hurt as Hawks stun ladder-leading Pies

Hawthorn produces major upset at MCG

In a surprising turn of events, Hawthorn has delivered one of the biggest upsets of the season by defeating Collingwood by 32 points at the MCG on Saturday night. The Hawks, wearing the retro kit from their 1999 Ansett Cup victory, kicked the first five goals of the game and maintained their lead throughout, securing an impressive win under coach Sam Mitchell’s guidance. This unexpected result comes as Collingwood’s grip on the minor premiership continues to dwindle with a second consecutive loss.

Sicily shines in defensive masterclass

James Sicily was instrumental in setting the tone for Hawthorn’s victory, delivering a standout performance that further enhances his All-Australian chances. With 37 disposals, 19 marks, 10 intercept possessions, and three goal assists, Sicily’s defensive prowess showcased the Hawks’ resilience and determination. Despite being snubbed in the Peter Crimmins Medal last year, Sicily’s outstanding display against Collingwood undoubtedly solidifies his influence on the field.

The rise of Hawthorn’s engine room

Hawthorn’s midfield duo of Jai Newcombe and Will Day proved to be the driving force behind the team’s success against a highly-fancied Collingwood midfield. Newcombe’s 28 disposals and six clearances, coupled with Day’s 29 disposals and seven clearances, outshone their Collingwood counterparts and demonstrated the promising future of Hawthorn’s midfield. Additionally, Finn Maginness continued to excel in his role as a tagger, shutting down Collingwood star Nick Daicos and restrictive his impact on the game.

Analysis and Editorial

Questioning Collingwood’s Intensity

While Hawthorn’s victory was a testament to their brilliance, Collingwood’s inability to match their intensity cannot be overlooked. The Magpies, who had maintained a strong position throughout the season, have now suffered back-to-back losses for the first time since round nine of the previous year. This raises concerns about the team’s ability to maintain consistency and perform under pressure. It is crucial for Collingwood to address these issues promptly as they enter the finals series.

The Rebuild at Waverley Park

Hawthorn’s rebuild strategy has become increasingly evident over the past year, as the club traded away key players such as Tom Mitchell, Jaeger O’Meara, and Jack Gunston. The win over Brisbane was a shock, but their victory against Collingwood has exceeded even the most optimistic expectations. The emergence of young talents like Jai Newcombe, Ned Reeves, James Blanck, and others, coupled with the continued brilliance of experienced players like James Sicily, highlights the potential for success in Hawthorn’s future.

Advice to Collingwood

Addressing Personnel Concerns

Collingwood’s loss to Hawthorn was marred by injuries to key players such as Nick Daicos, Tom Mitchell, and Nathan Murphy. While none of the injuries appear to be severe, the team must prioritize their recovery and ensure they are fit and ready for the upcoming finals. Collingwood needs to focus on their depth and ability to adapt to personnel changes to maintain their competitiveness in the finals series.

Maintaining Intensity and Focus

Collingwood’s recent losses raise questions about their ability to maintain intensity and focus under pressure. It is crucial for the team to address any underlying issues, regroup, and rediscover their winning form. Coach Ray McRae plays a pivotal role in instilling confidence and motivation within the team, encouraging them to perform at their best and overcome the challenges they face.

Conclusion

Hawthorn’s stunning upset victory over Collingwood serves as a reminder that in the world of AFL, anything is possible. The Hawks showcased resilience, determination, and exceptional performances from key players, ultimately outshining the highly-fancied Magpies. Collingwood, on the other hand, must regroup, address their personnel concerns, and re-establish their intensity and focus as they prepare for the upcoming finals series.