In the last quarter run-down, James Sicily motivates H…

Hawthorn’s late surge has given Fremantle a chance to move into the top two. James Sicily scored two goals as the motivated Hawks defeated the Dockers by 13 points in Launceston.

In Saturday’s 13.9 (87) to 10.14 (74) triumph, Sam Mitchell’s choice to push Sicily forward proved to be the deciding factor between the two teams. The returning captain scored three goals in the second half.

While the Dockers’ place in the top four is now in risk going into a challenging stretch run to September, it keeps the Hawks in touch with the top eight.

The Hawks increased their undefeated record at University of Tasmania this season to three, leaving the Dockers to lament wasted opportunities in the second half, winning 5.9 to 7.3.

Luke Jackson was forced to search for other opportunities after moving to Fremantle in late 2022, and Hawthorn ruck Lloyd Meek was awarded a free kick to begin the match.

The Hawks applied early pressure, as Dylan Moore, a prolific small forward, kicked the first goal after Heath Chapman, a defender, was caught clutching the ball.

After a sluggish start to the match for Fremantle’s midfielders, Hayden Young stepped up to the plate, utilizing both feet to deliver back-to-back kicks inside 50s to provide excellent service for the forwards.

Jye Amiss’s first set shot was as accurate as an arrow, despite growing doubts about his accuracy, and Josh Treacy maintained his excellent form by winning his eighth consecutive major.

For the third straight week, the Hawks capitalized on an inept defense in the absence of captain Alex Pearce, as seasoned striker Luke Breust converted a close-range set shot.

For the visitors, stand-in captain Caleb Serong answered with a tackle on Changkuoth Jiath inside the 50-meter mark and a true kick that put the Dockers ahead by five points going into the first intermission.

Fremantle increased their pressure inside their forward 50, and they took the lead when Sam Switkowski converted a given free kick.