Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell has described Fremantle ruckman Luke Jackson as a 'unique player' ahead of Thursday night's AFL blockbuster in Perth. The Hawks will rely on ruck duo Ned Reeves and Lloyd Meek to counter Jackson, who has been in stellar form this season.
Jackson is averaging 27 hitouts, 19 disposals, six tackles, five clearances, and nearly 12 marks per game, along with a goal. Mitchell acknowledged the challenge, saying Jackson's versatility makes him difficult to stop, particularly when he moves forward.
The third-placed Hawks face a second-placed Dockers side on a seven-game winning streak. Fremantle have won seven of their past eight meetings with Hawthorn and have lost only once to them at Perth Stadium, nine years ago.
Hawthorn are hopeful co-captain James Sicily will be fit after struggling with an ankle injury last week. Mitchell expects Sicily to play, saying he needs to get through training but the team anticipates his availability.
Mitchell sees the clash as a key test of Hawthorn's progress against the competition's form team. 'They have serious weapons all over the field and are quite systematic,' he said. 'Can we improve our game enough to compete against the best sides? We feel ready for it.'
