THIS is it for the Hawks, their last opportunity to tweak some things ahead of three tough games – Fremantle, Geelong and Collingwood – heading into the finals. There will be little let-up on the hapless Demons because percentage is so vital for the Hawks given their top-two aspirations, although expect a better showing from Melbourne if the post-match disposition of coach Paul Roos after the loss to the Brisbane Lions is any guide. Melbourne's defensive structures are vastly improved but Hawthorn still has the edge in firepower and class all over the ground.



WHERE AND WHEN: The MCG, Saturday August 9, 3.20pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for the broadcast guide

LAST FIVE TIMES
R10, 2013, Hawthorn 21.17 (143) d Melbourne 6.12 (48) at MCG
R7, 2012, Hawthorn 15.25 (115) d Melbourne 6.13 (49) at MCG
R18, 2011, Hawthorn 20.12 (132) d Melbourne 12.6 (78) at MCG
R2, 2011, Hawthorn 16.26 (122) d Melbourne 12.5 (77) at MCG
R20, 2010, Hawthorn 15.9 (99) d Melbourne 12.6 (78) at MCG

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THE SIX POINTS
1. Hawthorn has dominated Melbourne over a long period, winning the past 10 matches since 2007 with an average winning margin of 50 points. Since they last defeated the Hawks, Melbourne has had seven senior coaches (including Paul Roos).

2. The Hawks shouldn’t have too many issues winning the centre clearances - they are ranked second at 13.3 per game; in contrast the Demons are 18th at 9.4 per game. It will also be 1 v 18 in total clearances.

3. Hawthorn's recent domination of the Demons means they now hold an 82-74 advantage in head-to-head contests.

4. This will be a battle the best and worst inside 50 sides in 2014 - Hawthorn is ranked first, averaging 57.3 per game; Melbourne is last with only 40.7 per game.

5. Hawthorn continues to be the best team in 2014 for goalkicking accuracy with 305 goals, 207 behinds for a 57.3 per cent return. Wests Coast is next, but at 50.9 per cent is well behind the Hawks.

6. Hawk Shaun Burgoyne remains the No.1 small/medium defender according to the Official AFL Player Ratings.

Prediction: Hawthorn by 61 points