Ask any Melbourne fan and they will tell you Hawthorn has been one of our biggest enemies over the past couple of years. All but one game, Round 20 last year, Melbourne has been smashed in the past five encounters. In Round One, 2010, all the hopes of the Melbourne faithful were dashed when we were smashed by 56 points. This would be one of the defining moments of 2010, with no loss being over that margin for the rest of the year. We looked for revenge in Round 20, when we played them again, and up until 10 minutes to go in the last quarter, we almost had revenge. In the end we were defeated 15.9 (99) to 12.6 (78) but it was a much improved performance than previous occasions.
It has been just under five years since our last victory over the Hawks, and today, we get a shot at redemption. Arguably the best fullback in the competition is back for us - James Frawley - and we will be looking to him to stop Lance Franklin. We do that, and we are in the game. For Hawthorn, well, they welcome back their star Luke Hodge, but you can guarantee he won't be 100% therefore we have a better chance of shutting him down. As a side note, I don't agree with the Macdonald omission, but I suppose it has to be done if we want Frawley back.
Even though this is Round Two, this game is so important for us. For one, we have a chance to break our Hawthorn hoodoo. Two: it would almost be certain that we stay in the eight for another week, which would be seriously awesome. It's been a long time coming.
Who to look our for from a Melbourne perspective:
• Luke Tapscott: He was great last week in his debut last week against Sydney. He has an in-and-under attitude and will be looking to help us off half back this week. Hopefully, as a bonus, he can earn a NAB Rising Star award this week.
• Jack Grimes: Although he is a favourite of mine, you must watch him this week. His kicking last week left a lot to be desired, however his contested marking in the backline was superb. I expect a much better kicking display from him this week, as the Great Wall of Grimes continues his impressive career.
• Brent Moloney: He is a key if we are to win this game. Not much needs to be said other than if he is on in the midfield, Melbourne will most likely be in the game.
I would be expecting around about 45,000 fans to turn out for this match despite the fact that it is a twilight match. If you are thinking of getting along to the game, the boys on Twitter said they absolutely loved the atmosphere of last weeks game against Sydney, and it helps them perform, so there is no reason you shouldn't get down a see a great game.
Finally, they don't come much bigger than this in terms of a season defining game. It is only Round Two, but the stakes are high for us. A win and a half from two matches would be almost a perfect start for the season, and it would send a message to the people who seemingly like to doubt Melbourne week in and week out.
Are you ready?
Jamie.
