JLT: Nth Melbourne v Hawthorn

Nth Melbourne v HawthornSunday February 26, 2:05pm
at Nth Melbourne Recreational Reserve

Both sides are coming off impressive first hit outs last week and will be out to win two in a row here.

Lineups

Nth Melbourne Key Ins: Jy Simpkin
Nth Melbourne Key Outs: Jarrad Waite, Ben Brown, Sam Gibson

Hawthorn Key Ins: Tom Mitchell, Ricky Henderson
Hawthorn Key Outs: Ben McEvoy, Shaun Burgoyne, Isaac Smith, Grant Birchall, Paul Puopolo

What To Expect

The Roos scored an upset victory over the Swans in week one, though judging by team selection they don’t have much interest in this one. Scoring goals was an issue last year for North and they have left out there best tall forwards in Waite and Brown. Former Swan Tom Mitchell makes his club debut for Hawthorn, wearing Jordan Lewis’ famous number 3. Like the Roos, the Hawks have named a weaker side than the one they put on the park against the Cats in week one. Despite this, the Wolf thinks the Hawks have too much scoring power for the Roos and can see them winning a close one here.

Rising Star Watch

Young Hawk Teia Miles ($26) had a great game last week with 17 disposals in limited game time. There is a vacant midfield spot available at the Hawks and it is between Miles, Stewart and Lovell for the round 1 position. North Melbourne is going to unveil their 1^st selection at the 2016 draft with Jy Simpkin ($26) named to play. Simpkin plays in the middle and up forward and has a ready-made body for AFL. If he can keep clear of the injuries he suffered as a junior, Simpkin will be in the mix for a round 1 position.

How it’s Shaping Up

Hawks by 8

Recommended Bets

Best: Hawthorn 1-39 ($2.05)
Value: Hawthorn 1-24 ($3.10)