Selection Dissection: Needing a W
After two consecutive losses we are desperate for a win - but can it happen against the Pies in prime time?
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Round 12 — Hawthorn vs Collingwood
Frirday, May 30 — 7:40pm @ MCG
Two week’s ago I said that for us to stay in touch with the top 4, we would have to win at least three of our next five. Two weeks later and it’s not looking good after a second consecutive loss - this time against the Brisbane Lions, who we had not lost against since 2019!
The biggest issue about our loss to the Lions was that other than Jarman Impey and Will Day, it was our strongest possible team. Despite being 7-4, Sam Mitchell and his coaching team have a lot of work to do in the next month to get our season back on track.
With the Western Bulldogs to come at Marvel next week off a bye and then the Crows in Tassie following that, this week’s match against Collingwood is simply a must win.
It’s a mini-final. Lose this, and forget about the top 4. We will be in a fight to make the top 8.
Box Hill had another great win and are on top of the VFL ladder. Our AFL listed players continue to impress with many putting their hands up for selection this week. Historically, Sam Mitchell does not like to make too many unforced changes, so I wouldn’t expect to see any surprises at selection this week.
🛡️ Defence:
After the birth of his first child, Jarman Impey will return. With Impey returning, CJ might be moved to the sub role.
Our captain James Sicily should be moved forward or he needs a rest. Tom Barrass, Josh Battle, Jack Scrimshaw and JoshWeddle is enough down back in the “talls” department.
Blake Hardwick must play on Jamie Elliott this week. Enough with him as a forward!!
⚙️ Midfield:
Our worst fears have been realised! Will Day is irreplaceable!
Like the week before against the Suns, the midfield was smashed against the Lions. The biggest worry moving forward is there is no short term fix.
Cam Mackenzie has struggled since coming back from a broken hand and after being subbed at half time against the Lions will likely be dropped this week. Connor Nash returned from his four week suspension and struggled, whilst James Worpel is not performing like he did in 2024. Too much is being left for Jai Newcombe.
Sam Butler was best on ground for Box Hill with 40+ disposals and must be considered for selection this week.
🤾♂️ Ruck:
After a week off, Lloyd Meek struggled to have an impact against Brisbane’s number two, Darcy Fort. This week will be even tougher against Darcy Cameron, who has been in All-Australian form this season. Meek needs a big game for us to beat to the Pies.
⚡ Forwards:
A day to forget for the forwards other than Connor Macdonald, who found some much needed form, kicking three goals.
The Mabior Chol and Jack Gunston combo was non-existent, whilst the small forwards - Nick Watson, Dylan Moore and Jack Ginnivan had no impact.
Expect them all to bounce back in a big way this week against the Magpies, especially Ginnivan, who was best on ground in the same game last season.
🤦 Ben Ronke of the Week
Ned Long to have 30 disposals, eight clearances and a goal!
🔮 Selection Predictions 🔮
What should happen:
Out: Sicily (managed), Maginness (omitted), Mackenzie (omitted)
In: Impey, Dear, Butler
B: J. Battle, T. Barrass, B. Hardwick
HB: J. Weddle, J. Scrimshaw, K. Amon
C: H. Morrison, J. Worpel, M. D’Ambrosio
HF: D. Moore, C. Dear, J. Ginnivan
F: J. Gunston, M. Chol, N. Watson
FOLL: L. Meek, J. Newcombe, J. Ward
I/C: C.Macdonald, J.Impey, S.Butler, C.Nash (C.Jiath)
Emg: J.Serong , M.Ramsden, H.Hustwaite
Depth: S.Frost, L.Breust, S.Mitchell, J.Scaife, C.Anderson, B.Ryan, N.Mraz, M.Hill
What will happen:
Out: Mackenzie (omitted)
In: Impey
B: J.Battle, T.Barrass, B.Hardwick
HB: J.Sicily, J.Scrimshaw, K.Amon
C: H.Morrison,, J.Worpel, M. D’Ambrosio
HF: D.Moore, J.Gunston J.Ginnivan
F: C.Macdonald, M.Chol, N.Watson
FOLL: L.Meek, J. Newcombe, F.Maginness
I/C: J.Weddle, J.Impey, J.Ward, C.Nash (C.Jiath)
Emg: J.Serong , M.Ramsden, H.Hustwaite
Depth: S.Frost, L.Breust, S.Mitchell, J.Scaife, C.Anderson, B.Ryan, N.Mraz, M.Hill
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Bailey Macdonald says hi.
Sicily was good in the second half last week when we were getting smashed out of the centre. Don’t understand why you would drop him for a game like this….it won’t happen.
I think they have to make some change that improves our centre clearances or else we’re stuffed. If McKenzie is out bring Henry back. He gets his hands on the ball and can distribute. Run a few more through the midfield…MacDonald, Moore, WATSON!
Agree Dear in. Is lively and has good hands. Not sure Dear and Gunston can be in the same side?