The Hawks sit one game clear on top of the AFL ladder, but the Lions have proven that they’re more than capable of matching it with the best.
With wins against Essendon (Round 8) and Geelong (Round 13) already this season, there’s no reason why the Lions can’t cause another upset on the Apple Isle.
In fact, of the Lions’ 21 wins since Round 4 of 2010, five have been against sides that were placed either first or second on the ladder at their time of meeting.
They include the West Coast and Adelaide triumphs from last year, as well as the defeat of eventual premiers Collingwood in 2010.
“We can challenge these top sides. We’ve now completed Essendon and Geelong on the weekend, and there’s no reason why we can’t take it right up to Hawthorn,” Lions Assistant Coach Mark Harvey told LIONS TV as part of the Vero Coaches’ Wrap.
“We’re looking forward to seeing whether we can be more consistent with that nature of our game and really change the mindset of the opposition.”
“There’s obviously a lot we still need to improve on.”
Harvey also credited much of the Lions’ change in fortunes since the Bye to having a far more settled senior line-up.
“I think it’s the first time we’ve had a lot of stability within our playing group – meaning no injuries or suspensions – so we won’t make too many changes (this week),” Harvey said.
“Hopefully that adds to the predictability of what we’re doing.”
