THE FINAL Hawthorn game for the year in Tassie should be a good one. The emerging Bulldogs will relish the opportunity to test themselves against the equal flag favourites, and let's hope Brendan McCartney allows his pups to go head to head with the Hawks. The midfield clashes should be entertaining, but where the Hawks will prevail here is their clear edge in the key positions. Jarryd Roughead and Jack Gunston could get off the leash and with the Hawks needing the win and the percentage for their top two hopes, there will be no letting up if the game breaks open.





WHERE AND WHEN: Aurora Stadium, Sunday August 3, 3.20pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for the broadcast guide

LAST FIVE TIMES
R17, 2013, Hawthorn 13.17 (95) d Western Bulldogs 11.10 (76) at Aurora Stadium
R16, 2012, Hawthorn 17.14 (116) d Western Bulldogs 6.8 (44) at Etihad Stadium
R23, 2011, Hawthorn 16.17 (113) d Western Bulldogs 10.7 (67) at MCG
R10, 2011, Hawthorn 13.13 (91) d Western Bulldogs 9.8 (62) at Etihad Stadium
R14, 2010, Hawthorn 12.7 (79) d Western Bulldogs 11.10 (76) at MCG

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THE SIX POINTS
1. The Hawks and Bulldogs clash for the 156th time and Hawthorn holds a 78-75 advantage, with two draws.

2. The contest could be won in the clearances. The Hawks are ranked first with 41.2 per game while the Bulldogs are fourth averaging 40.7.

3. Hawthorn has won its past 10 matches at Aurora Stadium and 17 of its last 18; but in the Bulldogs' favour they have a 50 per cent record against the Hawks at Aurora with one win from two games.

4. The Hawks continue to the be the number one inside 50 side in 2014, averaging 57.6, though they are equal sixth for marks inside 50. The Dogs are ranked 15th for inside 50s.

5. Only one opposition side since 2009 has kicked 100 points in a game against Hawthorn at Aurora Stadium, the Sydney Swans in 2012. Since 2009 the average score against the Hawks at the venue is only 71 points.

6. According to the Official AFL Player Ratings, Bulldog Will Minson is the no.3 rated ruckman in the AFL, followed by Hawk Ben McEvoy at no.4.

Prediction: Hawthorn by 37 points