CURBING Sydney superstar Lance Franklin's influence was a crucial factor in the Hawks' thrilling six-point victory over the Swans, young gun Ryan Burton says.
Franklin booted five goals the last time the sides met in round 10, but was kept to just one major on Friday night with the young Hawthorn defensive unit headlined by Burton, James Sicily and Kaiden Brand doing a stellar job.
"I think last time the boys who played on him really just focused on him and I think that's what he wants, and that's how he loves to beat players," Burton said.
"Tonight, we all just worked together and we stopped his leading patterns and helped each other out to defend him, so to keep him quiet was really important for us."
Burton admitted that keeping his composure in such a tight contest is difficult, but said having cool heads such as retiring champion Luke Hodge helps the inexperienced defensive group stay in control.
Five talking points: Hawthorn v Sydney
"Whether it's in a big game or not, he doesn't shut up, which is really good for us young defenders," he said.
"Late in games and in close games he stands up even more and he's a big part of why we win games."
Burton, 20, received a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination in round two, and is one of the leading contenders to take out the prestigious award.
The youngster did his chances no harm with a classy performance on Friday night, gathering 21 disposals and shutting down various opponents to continue his stellar season.
Burton said his ability to play on a variety of forwards is a key strength to his game.
"I pride myself on being able to play on most players and playing tall and small," he said.
"We look after each other down back and we don't care who we play on, because we know that we're all going to help each other out."
The win over Sydney moved the Hawks to within striking distance of the top eight, but Burton said playing finals is not a focus for the team.
"We're just taking it one game at a time and not really looking at finals at the moment, so I guess that's helping in narrowing our focus," he said.
"If we can finish off the end of the year and get as close as we can to the eight, then we're going to be pretty pleased."
