portadelaidefc.com.au looks at the three most dangerous players in Hawthorn's ranks, who could prove dangerous this Friday night.
SAM MITCHELL
While the Hawks’ main ball-winner is known for his fine work in the midfield, he’s able to work his magic across all playing lines, from the backline and moving upfield to attack.
A weapon at the stoppage, Mitchell averages five clearances, 30 possessions (11 contested) and 419m gained per game - proving his instrumental role in the Hawks’ link-up.
Port Adelaide veteran Kane Cornes kept him fairly quiet in Round 4 with an unusually low 18 disposals and one mark - but without the now-retired elite tagger, the Power will need to look at other ways to limit his impact.
LUKE BREUST
A piercingly accurate kick at goal with midfield speed and agility; Breust is one of the most damaging small forwards in the competition.
When he’s not driving out of the square as a strong marking target, positioning is the All-Australian’s strength. His signature move is racing his opponent back into the goal square, to get in behind the defence.
Breust also boasts elite mobility, often seen in contest at the centre bounce and averaging 14 disposals per game. In Round 19 he collected 22 disposals, seven tackles plus three goals. With 45.16 this year alone, he’s currently sixth in the race to the Coleman Medal. In 2014 he kicked a streak of 29 goals – consecutively, without missing.
BRIAN LAKE
Sidelined early due to injury in the Round 4, the Hawks’ backline will look different with Lake back on the field and in full form.
The skilled full-back is a veteran of the game and Hawthorn’s general behind the ball, with 244 games, a Norm Smith Medal and two premierships under his belt.
His ability to read the ball coming into defence is a dangerous force among any forward line. Lake is leading the Hawks for marks from opposition kicks, and isn’t afraid to leave his man and take the intercept.
A skilful short kick and reliable ball-mover, he’ll be a headache for the Power with averages of 14 disposals and three rebound 50s per game. With 160m gained on average, he acts as the play starter - not the game breaker.
