AFL OFFICIAL PLAY

ATS - HAWKS -9.5 (x2)

The Hawks enter tonight match against arch rivals Essendon without both of their big forwards Buddy and Roughhead! This will be a huge task for the remainder of the side to lift and the likes of Hale to really step up! But The way Hawthorn play I think they can still come out on top of the out of form Bombers. The Hawks have won 4 of their last 5 losing only to Geelong by under a goal while Essendon is on a 4 game losing streak. Looking closer in the last month they have lost to North, Freo, Melbourne and Richmond! hardly world beaters this lot! The Bombers also have a horrendous record at the MCG. Having lost their past 8 matches in a row. The last time they were able to sing the song was over 12 months ago in round 9 last year.

Hawthorn will press hard and catch the flat footed bombers out with their run and carry tonight. Look for the likes of Suckling, Sheils, Savage, Smith, Burgoyne and little Cyril to run the bombers off their feet just as the fitter Kangaroos did last week. I am also a little surprised to see the Bombers go with all 3 big men Ryder, Bellchambers and Hille? The Hawks have had an issue with height over the past few years and will play a game style that suits their speed tonight. Hawks to win and cover.