Match preview: First preliminary final, Dockers v Hawks - AFL.com.au

Match preview: First preliminary final, Dockers v Hawks

Nathan Schmook September 22, 2015 1:27 PM

SUMMARY
The 2013 Grand finalists meet in a final for the first time since that day, this time for the
right to play off for a premiership. The Hawks have rediscovered their best football at the perfect time, while the Dockers will be banking on a rest giving them the fresh legs they need to progress. It could be the last chance for Freo veterans Matthew Pavlich, Aaron Sandilands and Luke McPharlin.

WHERE AND WHEN: Domain Stadium, Friday September 25, 6.20pm AWST

TV, RADIO AND BETTING: Click here for broadcast guide

WHO'S MISSING?

Fremantle: Key defender Luke McPharlin re-injured his troublesome calf in the lead-up to the qualifying final win over the Sydney Swans and is unlikely to return.  

Hawthorn: Spearhead Jack Gunston hurt his ankle in the qualifying final loss to West Coast and is in a race against time to be fit. He didn't train on Tuesday and is the only player who would be selected who is unavailable. 

THIS YEAR

Round 15, Aurora Stadium: Hawthorn 17.13 (115) d Fremantle 6.7 (43)

Hawthorn thrashed Fremantle all over the field, inflicting Ross Lyon's heaviest defeat with the Dockers. Sam Mitchell (39 disposals) and Luke Breust (four goals) were the stars, but it was the Hawks' relentless pressure that broke Freo. They had more disposals (427-308) and tackles (83-58).

PREVIOUS MEETINGS
R21, 2014, Fremantle 17.8 (110) d Hawthorn 13.13 (91) at Subiaco Oval
R3, 2014, Hawthorn 21.11 (137) d Fremantle 11.13 (79) at Aurora Stadium
GF, 2013, Hawthorn 11.11 (77) d Fremantle 8.14 (62) at the MCG
R4, 2013, Hawthorn 18.10 (118) d Fremantle 11.10 (76) at Aurora Stadium
R8, 2012, Hawthorn 17.17 (119) d Fremantle 9.9 (63) at Aurora Stadium

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Match preview: First preliminary final, Dockers v Hawks - AFL.com.au