The big question: Will Hawthorn's weakness prove too significant?

SEN • September 11th, 2025 5:15 pm

What is the biggest question facing each of the four Semi-Finalists?

Entering their do-or-die clashes in the second week of September, Adelaide, Hawthorn, Brisbane and Gold Coast have everything to play for to keep their premiership hopes alive.

So what do they need to get right, and what is their biggest concern that must be addressed to maximise their return?

SEN Breakfast co-hosts Garry Lyon and Tim Watson raised questions for all four sides approaching their elimination battles.

Hawthorn survived an almighty scare against the GWS Giants, withstanding a charging Orange outfit to book a place in the Semi-Finals.

Conceding six third-term goals, the Giants clawed back from 42 points down to claim the lead in the final term, however a resistent Hawthorn defence and a courageous front-half game swung momentum in the Hawks' favour, running out a 19-point win at ENGIE Stadium.

While the result was an astounding showing of strength in the final term, the holes exploited by the Giants in their major comeback were certainly areas of serious concern as they prepare for a giant clash with Adelaide.

Lyon: “As great as they were on the weekend, will the fact that they don’t defend stoppage or clearance very well in their forward half get them? They gave up 64 points against the Giants from clearance. 64 points!”

Watson: “They’d be playing with fire if they did that (again).”

“It’s been a problem for them, particularly in their front half, for a long time.

Lyon: “That might be one of the things we’re going to watch really closely against the Adelaide Crows.”

The Crows host the Hawks on Friday night at Adelaide Oval.