AFL Round 13

Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
Thursday 5 June | 7:30pm AEST
Marvel Stadium, Docklands • Wurundjeri
Broadcast: Channel 7, Kayo/Foxtel

> GAME-DAY GUIDE

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LAST MEETING

Elimination Final, 2024
Western Bulldogs 9.8 (62) def. by Hawthorn 14.15 (99)

The Western Bulldogs showed flashes of class but ultimately seized early control in a 37-point elimination final defeat to Hawthorn. Despite rallying late in front of nearly 98,000 fans, the Dogs couldn’t catch the Hawks, ending their 2024 campaign.  

Adam Treloar was a driving force with a team-high 28 disposals and 447 metres gained, while Caleb Daniel (23 disposals) and Tom Liberatore (25 disposals, four tackles) were relentless at the contest. 

Captain Marcus Bontempelli ignited a final-quarter push with a composed goal from 18 touches, Aaron Naughton was dangerous with three majors, and Sam Darcy stood tall.

THE LINE-UP

WHO TO WATCH

Fan favourite Adam Treloar is set to ignite excitement for the red, white and blue as he makes his return on Thursday night. The 32-year-old midfielder-forward, who debuted in 2012, has crafted an impressive 13-season career across three clubs, now proudly representing the Western Bulldogs.  

Treloar’s elite disposal, kicking and handball skills have made him a consistent game-changer, accumulating more than 250 games and 155 goals to date. Last season, he delivered a standout performance against the Hawks with 28 disposals, 15 kicks and an impressive 447 metres gained showcasing his strong influence across the ground. Fans will be eager to see him build on this form while helping his team get on top in the middle. 

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY

• Martin Pegan, AFL.com.au

The Western Bulldogs (6-5) dropped out of the top eight for the first time since round five while they had a bye but now have an opportunity to leapfrog Hawthorn and jump straight back in. The Dogs can turn to their hot streak at Marvel Stadium where they have won their past nine matches though the Hawks had the better of them when they met at the venue last year and again in an elimination final. 

Hawthorn (7-5) has fallen back into the chasing pack after three consecutive defeats to top-four contenders and now needs to beat another finals hopeful just to be sure to hold onto its place in the eight. The Hawks have averaged only 37 tackles in their past two matches as their pressure has dried up as much as their scoring in a couple of key areas they must turn around on the main stage.