Rick Browner reporting for AFANA from Domain Stadium, Perth
Hawthorn overcame a sluggish start to stamp their claim for a "threepeat" (three consecutive AFL premierships) when they came from behind to take down a determined West Coast Eagles. West Coast went into the game without in-form ruckman Nic Naitanui who had flown to Fiji after his mother’s death.
The Eagles got out of the blocks early, scoring the first two goals with the aid of a howling wind. They also hit the post twice and had these shots scored goals their lead may have been unassailable for the Hawks. Hawthorn had their chances too but were sluggish early and the windy conditions at their end played havoc with the skills of even their best forwards. Luke Breust’s goal from deep in the pocket and from a very acute angle showcased the Hawks’ exceptional scoring talent in general play. A third "poster" from the Eagles had them in the lead at the quarter time change but they had not closed the door on the Hawks.