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The Hawks first win over Essendon since 2021 was worth the wait. The mosquito fleet was in full flight, delivering a high-pressure, high-efficiency performance that saw us keep the Bombers at arm’s length all night in a 26-point win at the ‘G.

With the small forwards buzzing, the back six standing firm, and Karl Amon’s elite ball use on show, it was another step forward for Sam Mitchell’s high flying side.

The day after a big night at the ‘G, Darren Levin and Nat Martin unpack it all in our instant reaction pod.

🗣️ Key talking points:

* Our clinical efficiency inside 50: Despite 10 fewer entries, we took 16 marks inside 50 to Essendon’s six, making every chance count.

* The back six is locking in: Just their second game together, but TB and JB absorbed pressure and stood up in key moments. The Bombers managed just six marks from 56 inside-50s — a major tick for our defensive structure.

* Amon’s elite delivery: His kick to Watson in the first quarter was special, but he did it all night. We’re only two games in, but he’s in All-Australian form.

* Moore is the momentum killer: Three goals, 23 disposals, and a knack for stopping opposition runs exactly when needed.

* Nick Watson does it all: Three first-half goals were big, but it was his chase-downs, smothers, and defensive acts that the HI team buzzing.

* Flexibility up forward: Dimma Hardwick’s switch forward paid off, while Weddle also showed promise as a marking target late in the game.

* Depth is a weapon: The Hawks aren’t relying on just the top-end talent — cameos from Ward, McKenzie, Finn, & Weddle all helped keep the game on our terms.

* Six-day turnaround to Carlton: The Blues were embarrassed by Richmond —they’ll come out fired up, but can they handle our speed and versatility?

* The Bombers rivalry: How much do we hate Essendon, and where does this rank among the Hawthorn rivalries?

Keep your eyes peeled for our recap article, dropping later this weekend 👀

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