SUMMARY
The final match of the weekend promises to be one of the most intriguing, with the Suns and Hawks both desperate to break their ducks. Gold Coast was abysmal against GWS last weekend, and a win over the Hawks would ease the pressure on coach Rodney Eade. The Suns have started horribly in both matches and need to show a lift in intensity, particularly through the midfield where they have a plethora of quality personnel. Hawthorn has been competitive in both its losses, but looked less potent than in previous years. Tom Mitchell has fitted in nicely, as has Jaeger O'Meara, who returns to Metricon Stadium. It won't just be a matter of who wants it more, but which team can execute better, and based on the opening fortnight, Hawthorn should have the edge.
WHERE AND WHEN: Metricon Stadium, Sunday, April 9, 4.40pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R14, 2016, Hawthorn 12.14 (86) d Gold Coast 8.12 (60) at University of Tasmania Stadium
R9, 2015, Hawthorn 14.9 (93) d Gold Coast 6.4 (40) at University of Tasmania Stadium
R15, 2014, Hawthorn 17.14 (116) d Gold Coast 10.3 (63) at University of Tasmania Stadium
R4, 2014, Hawthorn 23.10 (148) d Gold Coast 7.7 (49) at Metricon Stadium
R9, 2013, Hawthorn 18.10 (118) d Gold Coast 14.8 (92) at the MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. When these teams last played the Suns led at half-time in rainy and windy conditions. Gary Ablett was best on ground with 40 disposals and 15 clearances.
2. Gold Coast haven't started games well in the first two rounds, conceding a total of 14 goals and kicking just three in first quarters.
3. The Hawks have a perfect record in this contest, winning all eight matches. Five of the victories have been by 50 points or more, with the closest margin nine points in round 24, 2011 at Metricon Stadium.
4. Despite their 0-2 start, the Suns haven’t had an issue taking the ball inside 50, ranked third with 58.5 entries a game. They are ranked equal ninth for marks inside 50.
5. If Hawthorn loses, it will be the first time since 2005 they will have started the season 0-3 - which just happened to be Alastair Clarkson’s first three games as coach.
6. Hawthorn recruited Tom Mitchell from Sydney and the former Swan has started in blazing fashion, racking up 75 disposals in two matches. He is now ranked 57th overall in the Schick AFL Player Ratings.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Jaeger O'Meara
The classy midfielder spent five years at Gold Coast before requesting a trade in the off-season. After missing the past two years with knee injuries, O'Meara has started his Hawks career in fine fashion. The Suns were filthy the 23-year-old walked out, so he can expect a hot reception.
PREDICTION: Hawthorn by 20 points
