Melbourne, 7 September 2024 – In a turn of events no one saw coming, Hawthorn has blown away the Western Bulldogs with a stunning 37-point demolition in the 2024 AFL elimination final. The Hawks’ 14.15 (99) to 9.8 (62) triumph has raised eyebrows across the AFL world, leaving many to wonder – is this the end of the road for the Bulldogs’ so-called premiership window?
Coming into the final, Hawthorn, who started the season 0-5, were written off by almost every pundit. Yet they now find themselves in the semi-finals, set to face Port Adelaide, while the Bulldogs, favourites in many circles, are left licking their wounds after being completely outplayed.
Captain James Sicily, often criticized for his fiery leadership style, was nothing short of heroic. Despite battling a shoulder injury, Sicily embarrassed the Bulldogs’ tall forwards and turned the game around with his defensive brilliance. And let’s not forget the young stars of Hawthorn – Clasher Dear, in his first season, and Nick “The Wizard” Watson, who were running rings around the Bulldogs’ defense.
Meanwhile, the Bulldogs – tipped by many to be genuine contenders – were nowhere to be seen. Marcus Bontempelli, their superstar captain, was a shadow of himself, spending more time on the bench than influencing the game. Is the “Bont” still the player he once was? Is this the end of the Bulldogs’ premiership hopes?
Hawthorn’s ruthless performance leaves the Bulldogs with serious questions to answer, while the Hawks continue their fairy-tale run. With Port Adelaide looming next week, are the Hawks now the team no one wants to face?
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Source: www.appnews.com.au
