Micky’s 50th

A 50th is usually a stock-standard sort of a milestone that isn’t overly celebrated. But when you’ve had the type of journey Michael Barlow has to get there, it’s just that little bit more special. Barlow’s story is now well known. Overlooked at multiple drafts, finally get his chance, emerge as a star, got cut down by a shocking leg injury and made a successful comeback. When he runs out onto Aurora Stadium on Saturday, it will be another small chapter to add to the Michael Barlow story.

Who does Crowley tag?

Crowley has historically played on midfield extractor Sam Mitchell. But last Friday night, Ross Lyon didn’t send his star tagger to the obvious opponent, Jobe Watson. He instead went with Matt de Boer on the Brownlow Medallist and played Crowley on Brent Stanton, who is more of a creator than an inside player for the Bombers. The other superstar in Hawthorn’s engine room is Luke Hodge, who was best-on-ground against Collingwood last Sunday. Does Lyon stick with a trusted formula, or is Hodge’s form too good to ignore?

Launceston

Freo’s record at Aurora Stadium is not very good, particularly against the Hawks, who relish the opportunity to play in front of their Tasmanian fans. But as Michael Barlow said in his media conference this week, it’s a patch of grass with four sticks at each end. Freo’s motto is anywhere, anytime, and Saturday in Launceston fits that bill.

Buddy tough opponent

Luke McPharlin has the tools to go with Hawthorn superstar Lance Franklin. But if the 2012 All Australian defender doesn’t come up following a bump last Friday night, Freo’s current defensive set-up may not suit against the speed and athleticism ‘Buddy’ possesses.

Will it catch up with the Hawks?
No side has had a tougher schedule to open the 2013 home and away season than Hawthorn. Alastair Clarkson’s side began the season with a torrid Monday encounter against Geelong. Just six days later they lined up against West Coast in Perth. The Hawks will also have a six-day break leading into the Freo match. So far, nothing has fazed the 2012 bridesmaids. Will it catch up with them eventually?