Exciting Hawthorn young gun Connor Macdonald says he is “shattered” for key defender Sam Frost, who will miss the rest of their finals campaign with a foot injury.
“He’s played a lot of football, and he’s a really sound defender. I think everyone’s upset, but I think we’ve got a lot of boys waiting and eager for the opportunity to step in.”
Will Day missed the club’s first final against the Western Bulldogs last week.Credit: AFL Photos
As the Hawks prepare to head into hostile territory for their semi-final against Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval on Friday night, the club has also ruled out star midfielder Will Day from taking his spot in the side after he was subbed out in round 23 with a collarbone injury.
Despite the Hawks’ latest injury blows, Macdonald said the playing group remains focused and is excited about Friday night’s clash.
“Port Adelaide are a very good football team and that crowd that they get over there is really cool. We’re looking forward to getting over there and playing in that game and just embracing finals football,” he said.
The Power will be looking to redeem themselves after last week’s 84-point loss against Geelong.
Hawks defender Jarman Impey said he had positive emotions going in against his former side.
“They’re going to come out firing, and they’re going to be really tough to beat there. I’m looking forward to it, it’s going to be a big challenge, and it’s going to be an exciting one,” he said.
Connor Macdonald and the Hawks aren’t afraid to dream big.Credit: Eddie Jim
Last week, the Hawks’ forward line proved to be a formidable force against the Western Bulldogs. Macdonald said the synergy of the group is as simple being “best mates”, and admitted he spends more time with teammates Dylan Moore, Jack Ginnivan, and Nick Watson than he does his own family.
“We’re really close off the field, and I think that shows on the field. We look after one another, we bring the energy, and we have fun.”
And fun is certainly on the agenda. The team have become the talk of the league, from controversies to celebrations, the newly dubbed ‘Hollywood Hawks’ aren’t afraid of the attention. The club has even promised a reappearance of the Nick Watson wizard hats at Adelaide Oval.
Macdonald celebrates Hawthorn’s win over the Western Bulldogs with Jack Ginnivan (left) and Nick Watson.Credit: AFL Photos
Macdonald said he is always thinking of new celebrations, and perhaps will debut a new one on Friday night.
“I’ll keep those close to my chest,” he said.
While the Hawks have embraced the fanfare, Macdonald said they understand there’s still a job to be done.
Hawks star Jarman Impey will come up against former side Port Adelaide on Friday.Credit: Eddie Jim
“We didn’t start the season well, and we’ve been able to turn that around, which has been great, but we’ve won a final, and now we’re into another final, so it’s really serious,” he said.
“You play football to win a grand final. I think the sky’s the limit for us, and hopefully, we can reach that. I think we’ve exceeded expectations, but we’ve come so far, so why can’t we go all the way?”
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