A 131-point win means little in the scheme of things, when you consider their opponents had just four players with over 50 games’ to their name.
But while much of the post-game talk was about the Lions’ cubs, Hawthorn was also without some big names.
Josh Gibson, Brendan Whitecross, Brad Sewell, Grant Birchall, Luke Hodge, Brian Lake and Ben Stratton were all missing.
The Hawks’ dominance, even against a severely undermanned Brisbane lineup makes them a scary proposition for Brad Scott’s team on Friday night at Aurora Stadium.
114 more disposals, 28 more inside 50’s, 35 more tackles; it was a stellar performance from the reigning premiers.
How does it affect North?
Well Scott and his men know exactly how good this week’s opponents can be after two agonizing losses last season, but will no doubt take in confidence from pushing them all the way to the final siren.
In both games the Hawks came from behind, winning by three points in Round 5 and 14 points in Round 22.
The difference this time around?
Hawthorn faced a test of its depth against the Lions with some key names out, but passed it with ease.
New faces Mitch Hallahan (12 disposals), Derick Wanganeen (19 disposals, 7 tackles) and Angus Litherland (15 disposals, 9 marks) all impressed, while Bradley Hill (26 disposals, 1 goal) looks to have taken another step forward in his development.
Todd Goldstein will have his hands full in the ruck against new recruit Ben McEvoy.
Up forward the ‘No Buddy, no Hawthorn’ argument has been put to rest with David Hale and Jack Gunston combining for 8 goals.
North’s defence will need to be on guard, while at the other end of the ground Cyril Rioli could prove a menace playing off half-back and will need to be kept in check.
The midfield group has to be on its toes too, with the likes of Sam Mitchell, Isaac Smith and Liam Shiels doing as they pleased against Brisbane.
With little to gauge the Kangaroos’ progress on before the clash against Carlton, the possible returns of Majak Daw, Robbie Tarrant and Aaron Mullett could give a better indication to where North is at with a close to full-strength lineup.
What better way to test yourselves than against the league’s best?
