SUMMARY
The Blues haven’t beaten the Hawks since round six, 2005, losing their subsequent nine encounters by an average of 41 points. Their quest for a drought-breaking victory, and one that will keep them within striking distance of the top four, appears as tough as ever this time. Alastair Clarkson believes his team is still yet to play its best football which is some statement given the Hawks have won their past nine games by an average of 45 points. Hawthorn is fresh from a bye, while the difficult-to-gauge Blues are still smarting from squandering a 31-point lead against Essendon. However, Carlton will present Hawthorn's biggest challenge since its round seven clash with Sydney.
WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Friday June 14, 7.50pm
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R22, 2008, Hawthorn 24.15 (159) d Carlton 12.9 (81) at Etihad Stadium
R6, 2009, Hawthorn 16.10 (106) d Carlton 15.12 (102) at the MCG
R9, 2010, Hawthorn 16.14 (110) d Carlton 8.12 (60) at Etihad Stadium
R22, 2011, Hawthorn 10.18 (78) d Carlton 8.18 (66) at Etihad Stadium
R14, 2012, Hawthorn 18.12 (120) d Carlton 10.10 (70) at MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. Two Hawks who enjoy playing against the Blues are forward duo Lance Franklin (27 goals in eight games) and Jarryd Roughead (24 in seven). They are ranked 12th and 28th respectively in the Official AFL Player Ratings.
2. Hawthorn is the AFL's most accurate team this season with a conversion rate of 55 per cent. Carlton is 11th at 47.9 per cent.
3. Both teams thrive on the hard stuff, with the Hawks ranked third in contested possessions. The Blues are equal-fourth.
4. Hawthorn is the No. 1 ranked team for disposal efficiency at 73.5 per cent; Carlton is eighth at 70.9 per cent.
5. The Hawks have won their past nine games against Carlton, including their past five at Etihad Stadium.
6. The seven clashes between the clubs at Etihad Stadium have attracted an average attendance of 49,067.
