Hawthorn will have its first taste of a new University of Tasmania surface when it hosts Melbourne in its round two Marsh Community Series clash on Friday at 7.40pm.
The Hawks lost their round one clash against St Kilda by 21 points a fortnight ago, and will be hoping to bounce back against a resurgent Demons outfit, who were too strong for Adelaide by 33 points.
Brownlow medallist Tom Mitchell, who played three quarters against the Saints, will be hoping to gain some much-needed match fitness after missing last season with a broken leg.
Hawks fans will be hoping to see more of GWS recruit Jon Patton, who kicked three goals against St Kilda in a promising hit-out for his new team.
Likewise, Tom Scully had a solid game for the Hawks and will be hoping to build on that performance in front of his team’s Tasmanian fans on Friday night.
First-gamer Sam Frost made his debut against the Saints and he looks a promising prospect and will give the Hawks more run out of defence.
With just two weeks until the start of the season proper, the Hawks could field a strong team against the Demons, with stars Luke Breust, Isaac Smith and Jaeger O’Meara expected to feature in the line-up.
Ruckman Ben McEvoy suffered a corked thigh in the Saints game and may be doubtful for this week’s game.
Melbourne is riding high after a solid win over the Crows, with star midfield Christian Petracca best-afield with 38 disposals and three goals.
Rising star Kysaiah Pickett kicked a wonder goal for the Demons in his debut against Adelaide and he will be one to watch this week.
Other new recruits Mitch Brown, the very promising Ed Langdon, Adam Tomlinson and former Crow Jake Lever are all expected to play.
Star ruckman Max Gawn will be looking to get some more game-time in his legs before the start of the opening round of the season, as will Steven May – both having some early season knee concerns.
The match kicks off at 7.40pm. Tickets for the game are available from the Ticketmaster website, with general admission available for $20 adults, concession $15 and children 14-and-under free.
All general admission tickets allow for seating in Northern, Southern and Eastern Terraces.
Gates 1 and 7 will open at 6pm.
