Despite Geelong’s winning streak of nine games in a row since the 2008 Grand Final against the Hawks, Hawthorn’s Shaun Burgoyne has faith that this Monday will be the end of the “Kennett curse”.
In saying that, Burgoyne doesn’t believe it will be an easy contest, especially after the Cats preseason performance.
"They have come out on top but I have no doubt on Monday there's going to be a massive crowd there and they are going to come hard at us again but hopefully we can turn things around this time," Burgoyne said.
"They have been really tight games and with Hawkins kicking a goal after the siren last year shows how tight it was and we are expecting a game like that again."
Burgoyne has revealed that Cyril Rioli and Brian Lake are showing positive signs and should be fit to play this Monday depending on the match committee’s decision.
Another key player for Hawthorn, ruckman Max Bailey, told News Limited that he hopes to be given a run in this week’s opening round, having only played in two senior games last season due to a long spell of injuries.
Hawthorn’s captain, Luke Hodge, was another name expected to be in the Hawthorn’s mix, however, Hodge has since suggested that he’ll miss this week’s match and play in Box Hill.
"I will be playing this weekend but more than likely Box Hill," Hodge told Nova FM.
"(My comeback is) more likely (Round) 3 or 4. My body feels great, from the operation I have built up nicely and I'm just looking forward to playing some footy."
Also Hawthorn defenders Matt Suckling and Brendan Whitecross and midfielder Alex Woodward will be out on the sideline recovering from knee surgery.
Hawthorn
Josh Gibson (ribs) test
Cyril Rioli (ankle) test
Brian Lake (calf) doubtful
Luke Hodge (knee) doubtful
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite
Brendan Whitecross (knee) indefinite
Matt Suckling (knee) indefinite
