HOW IS it that every time Geelong plays Hawthorn the two sides seem to be either undefeated, in the top two spots on the ladder, or both? And what a game this one should be, featuring unbeaten arch-rivals who have produced a string of classic contests since the Hawks took the honours in the 2008 Grand Final. The Cats will be desperate to avenge their five-point loss in last year's preliminary final, while the Hawks, the outright premiership favourites at the minute, will be out to prove that the 'Kennett curse' is indeed dead and buried.

WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Monday, April 21, 3.20pm

TV AND RADIO: Click here for the broadcast guide 

 

1PF, 2013, Hawthorn 14.18 (102) d Geelong 15.7 (97) at the MCG

R15, 2013, Geelong 11.16 (82) d Hawthorn 10.12 (72) at the MCG

R1, 2013, Geelong 13.15 (93) d Hawthorn 12.14 (86) at the MCG

R19, 2012, Geelong 18.10 (118) d Hawthorn 17.14 (116) at the MCG

R2, 2012, Geelong 14.8 (92) d Hawthorn 13.12 (90) at the MCG

 

1. Despite the loss of Lance Franklin, Hawthorn has increased its scoring this season. Last year the Hawks averaged 112 points per game. So far this season they're averaging 128 points per game.

2. There have been 19 games between these clubs at the MCG, including six finals. Geelong has won 14, Hawthorn five.

3. Geelong is ranked first for inside 50s this season, averaging 58.2 per game. Hawthorn is second with an average of 56.2 per game.

4. The Cats are ranked second for marks inside 50, with a total of 62, while Hawthorn is third with 53.

5. The most goals kicked in a game between Geelong and Hawthorn is 12. Hawks champion Jason Dunstall booted a dozen twice, in 1990 and '92.

6. The Cats' top player in the Official AFL Player Ratings, brought to you by Gatorade, is Joel Selwood, who is in third place. The top Hawk is midfield general Sam Mitchell, who is ninth on the ratings table.