SUMMARY
The heavyweight showdown looms as the biggest match played in Launceston since the Grand Final-bound Dockers last travelled to Aurora Stadium in round four, 2013. Freo is in the unusual position of being two games clear on top of the ladder but with a point to prove against the premiership favourites. Ross Lyon's Dockers have looked unconvincing at times in their past three wins and have only beaten Hawthorn once in their past seven meetings. The Hawks also haven't been at their brilliant best despite stringing together five straight, but must keep winning to cement the top-four spot required for a tilt at a hat-trick of premierships.
WHERE AND WHEN: Aurora Stadium, Launceston, Sunday, 3.20pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
Past five meetings
R21, 2014, Fremantle 17.8 (110) d Hawthorn 13.13 (91) at Domain Stadium
R3, 2014, Hawthorn 21.11 (137) d Fremantle 11.13 (79) at the MCG
GF, 2013, Hawthorn 11.11 (77) d Fremantle 8.14 (62) at the MCG
R4, 2013, Hawthorn 18.10 (118) d Fremantle 11.10 (76) at Aurora Stadium
R8, 2012, Hawthorn 17.17 (119) d Fremantle 9.9 (63) at Aurora Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. It will be a battle between the best attacking team, Hawthorn, and Fremantle's League-best defence; the Hawks are averaging 109 points, while the Dockers are conceding only 63 points.
2. Despite the most recent result, the Hawks have dominated the Dockers with six wins from the last seven meetings. Fremantle hasn't defeated the Hawks in consecutive games since 2006-07.
3. Led by 211cm giant ruckman Aaron Sandilands, the Dockers are ranked first in the AFL for clearances, averaging 44 per game. Hawthorn is fourth with an average of 41.3.
4. Aurora Stadium is a fortress for the Hawks, who have won their last 13 games in Launceston, not losing since early in 2012. Fremantle has played nine games at the venue for one win in 2006.
5. Both teams like to control possession. The Hawks (394) average the most disposals in the AFL and Freo (377) is ranked third.
6. Cyril Rioli's importance to Hawthorn's stretch of five straight wins has been reflected in the Official AFL Player Ratings, with the dynamic star rising 40 places to 65th overall.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR…
Ross Lyon. The Dockers are just going at the moment and, despite being two wins clear on top of the ladder, it would be a huge boost for their premiership credentials if they can upset the Hawks. Lyon-coached teams have struggled against Hawthorn more than most clubs, winning only four from 10.
Prediction: Hawthorn by 22 points
