Hawks Stumble, Then Soar: Dramatic Comeback Grounds Eagles
Hawthorn bounced back strongly from consecutive defeats, overpowering a struggling West Coast side by 50 points at Marvel Stadium. Led by the unlikely hero Mabior Chol and veteran Jack Gunston, the Hawks overcame early inaccuracy to dominate the contest, winning 18.16 (124) to 11.8 (74). Despite the convincing victory, the night was marred by injuries to Jack Scrimshaw and Karl Amon, both ruled out with head injuries. Chol was a standout, kicking three goals and taking a spectacular hanger over Oscar Allen, while Gunston added four goals of his own. As Hawthorn rediscovered their form, West Coast continued to battle through a winless season, showing glimpses of fight but ultimately falling away under sustained pressure.