We'll endeavour to run through the form, incorporate appropriate stats and also supply a betting prediction which won't always just be who will win.

FREMANTLE v HAWTHORN

Saturday 6 May @ Optus Stadium

This is a replay of the 2013 Grand Final. That is about as positive as you can relate these two who are in a world of current pain.

One was hoping to build on last year's finals and do better, the other wanted to show incremental signs of improvement.

Except in some far flung areas, it doesn't appear either are doing much of any of that.

Apart from a couple of periods at the Gabba, Fremantle were never a chance against the home side. Out-skilled, out-kicked and outclassed. They were too negative and took few risks.

That has been a bit of a mantra for their style. More needs to be done to redress that if they are to tackle the bigger boys.

Without big forwards it is hard to get excited about them until they do. Their midfield will look up and not know where to kick it often.

What they will find in Hawthorn is a defence who will offer them opportunity but can they take it. The Hawks had a crack at the Docklands but faded late.

Welcoming back Mitch Lewis, they had a focal point. He took 11 marks but was a bit rusty and wasteful. That will improve with more game time.

But they now manage Luke Breust. Who replaces him and his talents/experience?

After losing 6 on the trot to the Hawks, the Dockers have managed to win the last 4. Is that the trend or due for another swing?

How would you know which of either side will turn up? Hawthorn won the initial three games at Optus but has had nothing to take back from the last four occasions in reasonably close contests. Why won't this be similar?

Match Selection: Fremantle by 11 points

Suggested Bets: Fremantle 1-39 @ $2.15