Hawthorn Hawks secured their second consecutive win of the 2025 AFL season with a hard-fought 26-point victory over the Essendon Bombers at the MCG. Despite a less-than-perfect performance, the Hawks showcased their resilience and ability to clinch crucial moments in the match, keeping their unbeaten streak alive.
Key Takeaways
- Final Score: Hawks 17.9 (111) defeated Bombers 12.13 (85)
- Attendance: 80,735 fans witnessed the match.
- Top Performers: Jai Newcombe (25 disposals), Karl Amon (28 disposals), Nick Watson and Dylan Moore (3 goals each).
- Injuries: Jack Scrimshaw and Jordan Ridley both suffered concussions.
Match Overview
The match began with a promising start for the Bombers, as debutant Isaac Kako scored the first goal of the game. However, the Hawks quickly responded with a flurry of six goals in just 15 minutes, establishing a commanding lead of 6.1 to 1.4 by the end of the first quarter.
Despite the Bombers dominating the clearance count 17-5 in the first term, they struggled to convert their opportunities into goals. The Hawks capitalised on their chances, with Nick Watson and Dylan Moore leading the scoring with three goals each.
Key Moments
- First Quarter Surge: The Hawks scored six unanswered goals, showcasing their speed and efficiency.
- Injury Concerns: Jack Scrimshaw left the field with a concussion after a head clash, while Essendon’s Jordan Ridley also suffered a concussion.
- Essendon’s Fightback: The Bombers fought back in the second and third quarters, but their inability to convert opportunities kept them at bay.
Statistical Highlights
| Statistic | Hawks | Bombers |
|---|---|---|
| Contested Possessions | 126 | 149 |
| Clearances | 31 | 50 |
| Inside 50s | 48 | 58 |
| Goals Scored | 17 | 12 |
Coaches’ Reactions
Hawks coach Sam Mitchell acknowledged the need for improvement despite the win, stating, "We lost a lot of statistics that said we shouldn’t win that game, but we were able to kick 111 points."
In contrast, Bombers coach Brad Scott expressed disappointment, noting that while his team performed well in contested situations, they lacked efficiency in crucial moments. "We’ve got to get better in certain parts of our game," he said.
Conclusion
The Hawks’ victory, while described as "ugly" by new recruit Tom Barrass, highlights their ability to grind out wins even when not at their best. As the season progresses, both teams will look to build on their performances, with the Hawks aiming to maintain their unbeaten run and the Bombers seeking to convert their competitive displays into victories.
