Strong Performance with Room for Improvement
Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell expressed his satisfaction with the team’s strong performance following a commanding victory over the Western Bulldogs. However, he also had to address some areas of concern during the game.
The Hawks maintained a lead of up to 44 points in the third quarter at Adelaide Oval, but the Bulldogs managed to score three goals in the final moments of the term. If the Bulldogs had been more accurate in front of goal, the margin could have been closer than the final 21-point difference.
As the undefeated Bulldogs began to gain momentum, Mitchell took it upon himself to address the team during the three-quarter time huddle. He was visibly animated as he urged his players to regroup and focus on maintaining their dominance.
“During the third quarter, we played really well and built up a good lead,” Mitchell said. “However, good sides like the Bulldogs keep coming, and we opened the door for them. There was a 10-minute period where we weren’t at our best, and we looked like we were inviting them back into the contest.”
Mitchell added that he addressed the issue strongly during the huddle. He mentioned that co-captain Jai Newcombe was about to do the same, but Mitchell intervened before Newcombe could speak.
“I think I cut his lunch,” Mitchell said. “I wasn’t aware of it at the time, but I think he wanted to do it. I ended up doing it for him, but I was really pleased with the boys’ progress in the last quarter to make sure that we put the game to bed.”
Newcombe later told Mitchell that he was a bit disappointed because he was ready to deliver a similar message. “Maybe I should have let him do it,” Mitchell admitted.
Key Performances and Team Dynamics
Jack Gunston and Mitch Lewis both scored their third goals of the game, helping the Hawks secure a comfortable win in the final term. Jai Newcombe had an outstanding performance, finishing with a career-high 14 clearances. His efforts were supported by Ned Reeves and Lloyd Meek, who dominated the hitouts.
The Hawks won the hitouts 64-17, despite the absence of injured Bulldogs star Tim English. This was a significant factor in the team’s overall success.
Injuries and Concerns
One of the few negatives from the game was a hamstring injury suffered by Mabior Chol in the first quarter. Mitchell acknowledged the concern but remained cautious about the severity of the injury.
“There’s a small part of me that hopes it was really precautionary and he’s just cramped up or something,” Mitchell said. “But when a guy as big and as strong as him comes off grabbing his hamstring and doesn’t come back on, you wait for scans and get a vibe for that over the next few days.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the injury setback, the team’s overall performance was impressive, and Mitchell is confident in the direction the club is heading. The Hawks continue to show consistency and resilience, which are crucial qualities for success in the AFL season.
With the next match approaching, the focus will be on recovering from the injury and maintaining the high standards set in this game. The team’s ability to adapt and respond to challenges will be key in the upcoming fixtures.
