Sydney v Hawthorn: Hawks fans fume at one-sided free kick count

Tom Naghten

Sydney v Hawthorn: Hawks fans fume at one-sided free kick count image

Hawthorn secured themselves a top four finish and double-chance with a nine-point win over Sydney at the SCG on Saturday night.

Alastair Clarkson's side had trailed for the majority of the game but a five goal to two final term got them over the line in yet another thrilling encounter between these two clubs.

Sydney led by as much as 26 points midway through the second term but the fast-finishing Hawks secured an MCG blockbuster against minor premiers Richmond in the first week of the finals.

The home side had lost Lance Franklin and Luke Parker from the 22 that was named, but they didn't look like missing them during the first half.

MORE: Richmond v Western Bulldogs: Brad Lynch hits the post as Tigers get almighty scare

A lopsided free kick count may have been to blame, or at least it was if you asked the Hawks faithful.

The final count was 30-17 in Sydney's favour, though some of the line-ball decisions in the first half drew particular ire.

Hawthorn fans, and even some neutrals, couldn't help but voice their discontent at what they perceived to be some one-sided umpiring.


 


 



 


 


 


As it turned out, it mattered little as the visitors were able to overcome the deficit to ensure a coveted second chance should they lose in a fortnight's time.

Ruckman Ben McEvoy stood up for the Hawks, notching up 52 hitouts and several important contested marks, while Shaun Burgoyne's class was on display all over the ground.

Paul Puopolo kicked three goals, while Jack Gunston and Ricky Henderson pitched in with two each.

Tom Mitchell was well held by George Hewett in the first half but bounced back to finish with 24 touches.

For Sydney, they will be knocked down to sixth on Sunday by the winner of the Melbourne-GWS clash, though they will be playing a home elimination final regardless.

 

 

Tom Naghten

Tom Naghten Photo

Tom Naghten is a senior editor at The Sporting News Australia where he's been part of the team since 2017. He predominantly covers boxing and MMA. In his spare time, he likes to watch Robbie Ahmat's goal against the Kangaroos at the SCG in 2000.