Sam Mitchell’s Hawthorn are demonstrating a compelling blend of grit and tactical intelligence, a formula that delivered a 17-point victory over Sydney – 14.15 (99) to 13.4 (82).
The win highlights a shift in the league, where teams are valuing contested football and defensive pressure alongside traditional run-and-gun styles.
The Rise of the ‘Blue-Collar’ Approach
The success of Hawthorn, alongside other teams prioritizing contested ball and defensive pressure, signals a potential league-wide trend. Teams are recognizing that flashy skills and high-scoring games are not always sustainable, and a more robust, physical style of play can be equally effective.
This shift is partly driven by the increasing sophistication of defensive strategies and the emphasis on denying opponents straightforward scoring opportunities.
The Impact of Key Players and Value
The performance of Jack Gunston, Mabior Chol, and Mitch Lewis, whose combined salaries are comparable to that of Sydney’s Charlie Curnow, underscores the value of well-rounded teams. Their contributions demonstrate that success isn’t solely reliant on star power.
The ability to find value in players who excel in the contest, rather than solely focusing on high-profile recruits, is becoming a key differentiator.
Tactical Adjustments and Coaching Influence
Sam Mitchell’s tactical adjustment of deploying an extra player behind the ball proved pivotal in disrupting Sydney’s attacking flow. This demonstrates the growing importance of in-game adaptability and the ability of coaches to identify and exploit opponent weaknesses.
The ability to slow down the game and control the tempo, as Hawthorn did, can be a game-changer against teams that thrive on speed and open play.
Future Implications for AFL
The trend towards a more contested and physical style of play could lead to several changes in the AFL:
- Increased Emphasis on Midfield Contesting: Teams will likely prioritize recruiting and developing midfielders who excel in winning contested possessions.
- Defensive Specialization: The role of key defenders who can shut down opposition forwards will grow even more crucial.
- Strategic Coaching: Coaches who can effectively adjust their tactics during games will have a significant advantage.
The Hawthorn model suggests that a team built on hard work, discipline, and tactical intelligence can compete with, and even outperform, teams with more expensive and celebrated players.
The Hawks’ success serves as a reminder that in the AFL, a well-coached, physically strong, and tactically flexible team can challenge even the most star-studded lineups.
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