SUMMARY
When these teams last played off, a Grand Final berth was up for grabs. The Hawks won that one and they should prevail this time around even though the stakes aren't as high. Hard to believe as it is, the Freo Dockers have yet to win a game this year. Fremantle will bring application and industry on Saturday to Launceston, where they seemingly play every year, but the Hawks bat deeper all over the ground and the signs were there against Richmond last week that their midfielders are finding their groove and the outside run is back.
No Tassie for Pav
WHERE AND WHEN: Aurora Stadium, Saturday 14 May, 2.10pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
Last Five Meetings:
1PF, 2015, Hawthorn 15.4 (94) d Fremantle 10.7 (67) at Domain Stadium
R15, 2015, Hawthorn 17.13 (115) d Fremantle 6.7 (43) at Aurora Stadium
R21, 2014, Fremantle 17.8 (110) d Hawthorn 13.13 (91) at Domain Stadium
R3, 2014, Hawthorn 21.11 (137) d Fremantle 11.13 (79) at the MCG
GF, 2013, Hawthorn 11.11 (77) d Fremantle 8.14 (62) at the MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. Sam Mitchell starred with 35 disposals the last time these sides played in the 2015 finals; Taylor Duryea had 26 and Luke Hodge 25. Hawk Cyril Rioli kicked three goals, while Michael Walters booted three for Freo.
2. Hawthorn has been accurate kicking for goal so far in 2016, ranked third at 56.9 per cent, kicking 103.78. In contrast the Freo Dockers are 18th at 41.1 per cent booting 69.93.
3. Hawthorn and Fremantle meet for the 33rd time and the Hawks have dominated over a long period of time winning 24 games to eight, including 11 of the past 13.
4. The Freo Dockers have struggled to take the ball inside 50 in 2016, ranked 17th averaging only 46.1 per game; Hawthorn is mid table, equal eighth at 53.9 per game.
5. The Hawks have been nearly unbeatable at Aurora Stadium over a long period of time winning their last 16 matches and 23 of their last 25; they haven’t lost since round five, 2012.
6. Cyril Rioli (No.13) and David Mundy (No.35) will be the top-ranked players from each club on Saturday according to the Schick AFL Player Ratings.
