Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Hawthorn vs Gold Coast turned on midfield control and rapid scoring bursts as the Hawks beat the Suns 17.11 (113) to 14.13 (97) at People First Stadium on Friday night.
The result lifted Hawthorn to 9-1-4 and third place, while Gold Coast suffered a fourth straight defeat and lost Daniel Rioli to a likely fractured jaw. The Suns had chances in front of 19,576 fans, but Hawthorn’s centre clearance edge and cleaner scoring runs proved decisive.
For more AFL tribunal and football news, read Jy Simpkin Offered Meeting With AFL Football Boss After Paul Curtis Suspension Controversy, while official match details are available through the AFL match centre.
Hawks Midfield Takes Charge
Hawthorn won the centre clearances 20-12, with Gold Coast losing all nine in the third quarter before taking the final four of the match.
Jai Newcombe was outstanding with two goals, 30 disposals and 10 clearances, while Will Day gave the Hawks burst from the middle. Dylan Moore kicked four goals and Nick Watson added three as Hawthorn struck in damaging waves.
"They're just good at footy," Hawks coach Sam Mitchell said of his game-breakers.
"And when you play sides with as much quality you're going to need a couple of talent goals.
"Handling momentum is every coach's desire ... we lost control regularly, but didn't get scored against too heavily."
Injury Concerns And Review Pressure
The first half brought several injury and review worries.
Jarman Impey was ruled out with a hamstring injury, while Rioli was hurt after high contact from Josh Weddle. Sam Clohesy may also face scrutiny for a driving tackle on Cam Nairn, who returned after passing his HIA.
Karl Amon limped off late in the third quarter, though Mitchell was hopeful the issue was not serious.
Suns Left To Count Cost
Ben Long kicked four goals and Noah Anderson collected 43 disposals, but Gold Coast’s poor turnovers hurt badly.
"Two things: (conceding) 5.4 from centre bounce and eight goals from turning the ball over in our front half, which was Suns killing Suns," coach Damien Hardwick said.
"You're judged by outcome but our game for most of the night ... was pretty strong."