AFL OFFICIAL PLAY

ML - HAWKS (x1)

WHO WILL STOP BUDDY???

 I expect Hawthorn to be one of the big movers in 2011 and really challenge for the flag! They have added Hale to help out their lacking ruck department and the inclusion of Bruce who came over from the Demons for nothing is a bonus. He will add that touch of class coming out of defence. Hawthorn have had their best pre season in years with all bar Hodge fit and ready to go. Hodge is a big loss but I think they have plenty of running power to cover. Adelaide will field a side that will look very different to what we are use to with McLeod, Edwards, Burton, Goodwin, Hentschell all retiring and Bock moving on. This is a huge hole to fill in one hit. The big question is will the likes of Vince, Douglas, Reilly, Thompson be able to lead from the front?

Looking to tonight's game I see a huge advantage with the Hawks run and carry through the midfield. Mitchell, Bateman, Burgoyne, Rioli, Young and Bruce will have to much class for the younger Crows Tambling, Sloan, McKay, Van Berlo etc. Also I think Buddy is set for a huge year! not sure who goes with him tonight as I'd expect Rutten to take Roughhead. Perhaps Otten and Davis will take turns? either way I see him tearing the young crows apart! Adelaide will struggle to produce a winning score IMO with a young and inexperienced forward set up of McKernan (1st game) Walker, Knights (back from long lay off). While Hawthorns record in Adelaide isn't great the did win here last year and in fact have beaten the crows in 4 of their last 6 meetings. Hawks for me win a close one.

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