Dockers V Hawks Preview – Fremantle already have beef with the Hawks after their devastating grand final loss in 2013. Can Dockers coach Ross Lyon pull some magic out of his hat in time for his teams clash with the reigning Premiers??
Fremantle Dockers and Hawthorn go head to head at Domain Stadium on Friday, bounce down at 6.20pm.
Live in HD 7Mate and Fox Footy
Fremantle produced an unconvincing win over Sydney in their last match and will need to up their performance BIG TIME in order to take down a controlling Hawks outfit. Having last week off will hopefully be beneficial to Fremantle, heading into this game with fresh and rested bodies.
There has been a lot of chatter about the possible return of gun tagger and super pest Ryan Crowley to match up on Hawthorn’s Sam Mitchell. Crowley hasn’t played all season due to a doping suspension but his availability for selection would give Ross Lyon one more option to consider. Ross has not completely shut the door on Crowley’s return however, he has said that it will be unlikely.
The Hawks have won five of their last six clashes against Freo since Ross Lyon took over in 2012, Hawthorn dominating their most recent meeting, beating Freo by 72 points. The Hawks rebounded from their qualifying final loss against West Coast two weeks ago with a ravaging win over Adelaide in the semi-final. Hawks star forward Jack Gunston is still in doubt for this weekend after missing last week’s game with an ankle injury.
Dockers were also dealt an injury blow, with defender Luke McPharlin in sever doubt for this weekend due to his lingering calf problem. Fellow defender Michael Johnson, super star Nat Fyfe and skipper Matt Pavlich are all apparently good to go against the Hawks, which is music to my ears! (And all other Docker supporters I’m sure).
As a Dockers supporter, I’m a tad nervous for this one. I am extremely relieved that this game is at Domain Stadium, hopefully the home ground will be a big advantage for Freo. If the Dockers can improve their forward line effectiveness and scoring power, they may be in with a chance. My heart says Freo will get the win, my head is not so convinced…
My tip is… Dockers by 4 points! (I’m tipping with my heart this week!)
Let us know your finals predictions: @TweetPerth @Emmalianapayne
