SUMMARY
Hawthorn is seeking its 10th win in a row when it takes on Melbourne at the MCG on Saturday. Despite their low percentage (124.3) the Hawks sit two games ahead of their nearest rivals at the top of the ladder and appear likely to wrap up the minor premiership. The Demons, on the other hand, will again miss the finals but can be buoyed with the improvements they have made this season. Melbourne is far more competitive against the top teams and are in a much better position to take it up to the Hawks. However, Hawthorn has won 13 consecutive games against the Demons and it is hard to see that hoodoo being broken this weekend.
WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Saturday, August 6, 2.10pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
Whether he's up against Poppy or Cyril, Neville Jetta is going to have his hands full. Picture: AFL Media
LAST FIVE TIMES
R11, 2016, Hawthorn 11.16 (82) d Melbourne 10.4 (62) at the MCG
R7, 2015, Hawthorn 24.11 (155) d Melbourne 7.8 (50) at the MCG
R20, 2014, Hawthorn 17.13 (155) d Melbourne 9.11 (65) at the MCG
R10, 2013, Hawthorn 21.17 (143) d Melbourne 6.12 (48) at the MCG
R7, 2012, Hawthorn 15.25 (115) d Melbourne 6.13 (49) at the MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. Scores were level at three quarter-time in their round 11 clash, before Hawthorn finished the stronger side. Jack Gunston kicked three goals and Jordan Lewis had 29 disposals.
2. Hawthorn will be looking for its 10th consecutive win this season, its longest winning sequence in a season since it won 12 in a row in the first half of 2013.
3. The Hawks have been impressive in the way they have finished games in 2016, winning the most final quarters in the AFL (13). Melbourne has won nine fourth quarters.
4. Hawthorn continues to dominate against Melbourne, winning the past 13 matches including seven by 50 points or more. The Demons have not defeated the Hawks since round eight, 2006.
5. One possible advantage for Melbourne could be in contested possessions, with the Demons ranked fourth (150.3 per game). Hawthorn is ranked 14th with an average of 134.6, although the stat does not appear to faze coach Alastair Clarkson.
6. Melbourne ruckman Max Gawn has moved to a career-high 19th placing in the Schick AFL Player Ratings. Cyril Rioli remains Hawthorn's highest-ranked player at No.9 in the competition.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Neville Jetta.
The small defender has dramatically improved his ability to attack from the back-half this season, as well as maintaining his defensive focus. Jetta faces a tough assignment against the Hawks with a likely match up against Cyril Rioli awaiting him. He may also spend time on Luke Breust and Paul Puopolo, who pose similar problems.
Prediction: Hawthorn by 25 points
