Perfect against imperfect
It’s always hard to get an accurate read on a team’s form line from such a small sample size, but on paper the equation is clear – the Hawks are yet to win and the Cats are yet to lose.
For Hawthorn, another loss would mark the first time under Alastair Clarkson the Hawks have lost their first four games of the season, and the first time they have started 0-4 under any coach since 1998.
The Cats have not been their most convincing either, coming form behind against both North Melbourne and Melbourne in games riddled with inconsistencies from one quarter to the next.
But what we do know know is that these two sides have played out some of the most memorable and dramatic matches in recent history. To enter an Easter Monday clash in circumstances as those mapped out above is not just foreign to Hawks fans, but unfamiliar territory for those of Geelong and neutral supporters alike.
Nonetheless, the reality is this: it’s Hawthorn versus Geelong. It’s Easter Monday. And it’s hard to believe we will see a game reflective of either side’s win-loss ratio.
Do you believe the formlines or are we in for another classic? (AFL Photos)
Time to take flight
Welcome back Nakia Cockatoo.
The 20-year-old has missed just two games following surgery on his broken thumb, but there is no question the Cats look more predictable without the most exciting player on their list.
You never quite know what Nakia may do and – at times – even he doesn’t. His goal running goal against Fremantle in round one proved as much, and the Cats’ first pick in the 2014 draft really does looks to be every bit the match-winner.
It is yet to all come together for Cockatoo and the stage is certainly set for some Easter Monday magic from the no.5. But at the very least, Geelong needs to get as many consistent games into Nakia as possible this season.
Nakia Cockatoo is back – and hopefully for good. (AFL Photos)
N-O'Meara
The Hawks may be winless but they’re taking a conservative approach with prized recruit Jaeger O’Meara.
The former Sun has talent in abundance and is pivotal to Hawthorn’s regeneration, so it’s no surprise to see the 23-year-old not risked this week with knee soreness. But as Hawthorn seemingly struggles with life after Jordan Lewis and Sam Mitchell, the Hawks will feel even shallower through the midfield without O’Meara.
Fellow recruit Tom Mitchell has started 2017 in sensational fashion, averaging 34 disposals – yet Alastair Clarkson will be calling on the likes of Will Langford, Liam Shiels and Billy Hartung to lift their output if they are to match it with Geelong’s on-ballers.
The Hawks will be without prized midfield recruit Jaeger O'Meara on Easter Monday. (AFL Photos)
