The 18.13 (121) to 11.10 (74) win was set-up by a blistering third term, where Hawthorn scored 7.3 to Collingwood’s two behinds.
Hodge admitted the third-quarter performance left him with the impression the Hawks were returning to the form that led to them winning the 2008 premiership.
“We knew we definitely have the ability if we play as a team like we did tonight and bring each other into the game,” he said.
“I thought it was a good four-quarter effort tonight – the boys were in and under and I guess we continued on from our hard-fought win last week.”
Hodge said the side had learnt valuable lessons from the 88-point loss to the Western Bulldogs two weeks ago and were determined to work hard to cement a spot in the top eight.
“We were embarrassed after that performance and we sat down together and said: ‘what we are going to get out of the season?’” he said.
“I think the last two weeks have really shown we do have a lot of pride among this group.”
Hodge was excited with the return to form of Lance Franklin (five goals).
He said the reigning Coleman Medallist is benefiting from the Hawks’ renewed confidence through the midfield.
“Early in the year we were a bit inconsistent with our ball movement – it didn’t play into the forwards hands because other teams were able to get numbers back and cut them off,” he said.
“It’s all down to our movement – if we can move the ball faster like we did tonight it gives ‘Buddy’ and Roughead a bit of a chance,” he said.
The Hawks face a grand final rematch against Geelong next Saturday afternoon at the MCG and Hodge said they could definitely challenge the Cats.
“We are going to have to be at our best to beat them,” he said. “As long as we can play team-orientated football, the season is definitely not over.”
