“Expect alterations”: Assertive commitment from Hawks coach amidst ongoing “catastrophic” pattern.
Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell emphasized the urgent need for significant improvement in their center clearance performance ahead of their upcoming match against Geelong, following what he described as a “disastrous” start in that aspect this season.
Despite ranking third in center clearances last year despite finishing in the bottom three, Hawthorn suffered a significant setback, being outperformed by nine center clearances against Essendon in Round 1. This trend continued as they replicated that deficit in their 55-point loss to Melbourne at the MCG on Saturday evening.
Mitchell highlighted the pressing need to rectify this statistic if they stand any chance against Geelong in the next round, hinting at potential changes, whether in personnel or tactics, to address the issue.
The coach expressed concern over their inability to compete effectively in center bounces, acknowledging the impact it had on field position and their overall performance.
However, center clearances weren’t the only troubling aspect of their defeat to Melbourne. Hawthorn’s conservative approach, marked by excessive possession in the defensive half, was also criticized by Mitchell as unsustainable.
The midfield battle was particularly lopsided, with Melbourne’s trio of Jack Viney, Petracca, and Clayton Oliver dominating the clearances, highlighting Hawthorn’s struggles in comparison.
Despite recognizing Melbourne’s established cohesion and performance consistency as something to aspire to, Mitchell emphasized the need for Hawthorn to avoid using it as an excuse for continued heavy defeats.
Mitchell also confirmed that Luke Breust was substituted out in the second half for tactical reasons and had no injury concerns.
