There will be much hype around whether Hawthorn can exact revenge for its loss in the 2012 premiership decider, but in reality, the real prize up for grabs in this match is a jump-start towards a 2013 top four spot. Both teams are 5-1 and building towards peak form, without yet reaching their very best. The winner can move to as high as second on the ladder.
WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Saturday May 11, 7.40pm
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
GF, 2012, Sydney Swans 14.7 (91) d Hawthorn 11.15 (81) at the MCG
R22, 2012, Hawthorn 15.12 (102) d Sydney Swans 14.11 (95) at the SCG
R5, 2012, Sydney Swans 16.10 (106) d Hawthorn 10.9 (69) at Aurora Stadium
SF, 2011, Hawthorn 19.8 (122) d Sydney Swans 13.8 (86) at the MCG
R9, 2011, Hawthorn 15.16 (106) d Sydney Swans 8.12 (60) at the SCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. Hawthorn has won four of its past five clashes with the Swans at the MCG, with the most recent – the Grand Final – the only blemish. In fact, the Swans' Grand Final victory was their first at the venue against any team since late in 2009.
2. As would be expected of two teams with 5-1 win-loss records, both the Swans and Hawks have been strong at both ends of the field this season. Hawthorn ranks third in total points scored and fifth in least points conceded, while the Swans are fifth and fourth respectively in the same categories.
3. Lance Franklin has gone goalless in his past two matches, the first time this has happened since rounds six and seven in his debut season, 2005. The four-time All Australian has never gone goalless for three straight games.
4. The Swans have won more contested possessions than any other team in the AFL so far this year. Hardnut midfielders Josh Kennedy (100) and Ryan O'Keefe (93) have led the way, ranking second and third in the League respectively, behind only Gold Coast captainGary Ablett (101). Hawthorn ranks sixth overall, but does not have an individual player in the top 20.
5. On the flipside, Hawthorn has the second- and third-ranked players for uncontested possessions. Grant Birchall (124) and Sam Mitchell (116), who have both been important playmakers from half-back, are behind only Kane Cornes (140). Nick Malceski (97), ranked 13th overall, is the Swans' uncontested possession leader. He ranks No.1 in the AFL for rebound 50s, having cleared the ball from defense 13 more times than any other player.
6. This will be the 153rd clash between these teams. Hawthorn holds the advantage, having won 83 games to 67 (with two draws).
