In a display of unwavering confidence, Hawthorn AFLW star Tilly Lucas-Rodd has voiced her team’s readiness for the upcoming qualifying final against the Brisbane Lions, despite facing the challenges of a relatively unfamiliar venue and a powerhouse opponent. As the Hawks prepare for the match, Lucas-Rodd’s comments underscore the resilience, adaptability, and spirit of a team that’s determined to make its mark on this season’s finals.
## A Journey of Growth for Hawthorn
The 2023 AFLW season has been a breakout journey for the Hawthorn Hawks. As one of the newer teams in the league, Hawthorn has steadily climbed the ranks, showcasing an impressive blend of emerging talent and experienced leadership. Under the guidance of coach Bec Goddard, the Hawks have built a culture based on hard work, tenacity, and team-first mentality, laying the foundation for sustained success in the coming years.
This season has marked a turning point for the team. After facing the initial growing pains that come with establishing a new AFLW side, Hawthorn has begun to hit its stride. The Hawks’ resilience has shone through in key games, with impressive wins that have solidified their spot in the finals. Now, as they prepare to face Brisbane, one of the league’s most formidable teams, the Hawks are embracing the opportunity to test themselves against the best.
## Embracing the Challenge of the Finals
For Tilly Lucas-Rodd, a veteran leader and one of Hawthorn’s most influential players, the upcoming match is both a challenge and an opportunity. In her comments leading up to the game, Lucas-Rodd emphasized that the Hawks are unfazed by the factors of venue and opposition. In her view, the unfamiliarity with the Brisbane location is a non-issue; instead, it’s a chance for the team to focus on their own strengths, game plan, and mental resilience.
“It doesn’t matter where we play or who we’re up against,” Lucas-Rodd said. “Our goal is the same: to go out there, play our brand of football, and put everything on the line. We’re confident in the work we’ve put in, and we believe in each other. We’re ready.”
This approach speaks volumes about the mindset that Lucas-Rodd and her teammates bring into the finals. As an experienced player who has been through the highs and lows of professional sports, Lucas-Rodd knows that mentality can often make the difference in tight games. Her words not only reflect her own belief in the team but also serve to rally her teammates as they enter uncharted territory.
## The Impact of an Unfamiliar Venue
The match against Brisbane will take place at Brighton Homes Arena, a venue with which Hawthorn has limited experience. The Lions, on the other hand, are familiar with the ground, having used it as their home base. While this could be seen as an advantage for Brisbane, the Hawks see it as a minor obstacle at most. In fact, the unknown aspect of the venue might play into Hawthorn’s hands by creating a sense of adventure and new possibilities.
According to Hawthorn’s coaching staff, the team has been preparing meticulously for the conditions at Brighton Homes Arena. Coaches have reviewed game footage from previous matches held at the venue, and players have simulated different scenarios that might arise during the game. These preparations are designed to help the Hawks feel comfortable in the unfamiliar setting, ensuring they are ready to adapt as needed.
Furthermore, Lucas-Rodd and her teammates view the opportunity to play in a new venue as part of the excitement of finals football. Rather than focusing on potential challenges, the Hawks are channeling their energy into embracing the experience and treating it as just another part of the journey.
## Facing a Formidable Opponent
While Hawthorn’s confidence is clear, they know they’ll be facing one of the league’s top teams. The Brisbane Lions have consistently been a powerhouse in the AFLW, with a strong roster featuring a mix of experienced stars and promising young talent. The Lions are known for their fast-paced, attacking style and a tenacious defensive unit, which has made them one of the toughest teams to beat in the competition.
Brisbane’s reputation and history of success in finals matches make them the favorite heading into the game, but Hawthorn’s Lucas-Rodd has insisted that the Hawks are not intimidated. “We respect Brisbane, and we know they’re a great team,” she acknowledged. “But we’re not going in with any fear. We’re going in with belief. We’ve worked hard to get here, and we believe we can compete with anyone.”
Lucas-Rodd’s confidence is backed by the Hawks’ performance throughout the season. Despite being a relatively new team, Hawthorn has shown an ability to stand up against more established sides. Their ability to play with grit, patience, and intensity has earned them respect, and they’ve demonstrated they’re not afraid to go toe-to-toe with the best.
## Key Players to Watch for the Hawks
Hawthorn’s finals campaign will rely on the performances of key players, and Lucas-Rodd will undoubtedly be at the center of the action. Known for her versatility, leadership, and impact on both ends of the ground, Lucas-Rodd has the experience and poise to guide her team through high-pressure situations. Her physicality and playmaking abilities will be crucial in countering Brisbane’s aggressive play style.
Young stars like Jasmine Fleming and Sophie Locke are also expected to play vital roles. Fleming, a rising midfielder, has been impressive throughout the season with her agility and creativity. Her ability to break away from defenders and create scoring opportunities has been invaluable to the Hawks, and she’ll be instrumental in establishing control in the midfield.
Locke, another standout player, brings energy and resilience to Hawthorn’s forward line. Known for her marking ability and accurate goal-kicking, Locke has become a reliable scorer, capable of seizing crucial moments. Her presence will be crucial in applying pressure to Brisbane’s defense and generating offensive momentum for the Hawks.
## Coach Bec Goddard’s Strategic Vision
Bec Goddard, Hawthorn’s head coach, has been a driving force behind the team’s development. Goddard’s experience and strategic mind have been instrumental in building a competitive team in a short time. Her approach emphasizes teamwork, adaptability, and resilience—qualities that will be essential in the high-stakes environment of finals football.
Goddard has instilled a game plan that balances defensive discipline with an aggressive push for goals. Against Brisbane, she’s likely to focus on limiting the Lions’ space, disrupting their flow, and preventing quick transitions. The Hawks will need to play with cohesion, remaining disciplined in defense while taking advantage of any scoring opportunities that arise.
During the season, Goddard has spoken about the importance of adapting to opponents, and this flexibility will be key against Brisbane. Goddard has prepared her team to anticipate the Lions’ aggressive style, and her tactics may involve slowing down the game, applying intense pressure, and creating turnovers that can lead to counterattacks.
## The Emotional Drive of Finals Football
While tactics and preparation are essential, Lucas-Rodd believes that the emotional aspect of finals football is equally significant. For the Hawks, reaching the finals represents a major achievement and a validation of their hard work, resilience, and commitment. The players understand the opportunity they have before them, and they’re driven by the desire to make their fans and supporters proud.
“Our supporters have been incredible, and we want to give them something to cheer about,” Lucas-Rodd said. “We know that every game could be our last, so we’re going to leave everything on the field. This isn’t just a game for us; it’s a chance to show what we’re made of.”
The Hawks are keenly aware of the significance of the moment, and this awareness has strengthened their bond as a team. They’ve committed to supporting each other through the pressure and intensity of the finals, and they’re motivated to make the most of every opportunity.
## Looking Ahead to an Exciting Showdown
As Hawthorn prepares for their qualifying final against Brisbane, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. For Tilly Lucas-Rodd and her teammates, the match represents both a challenge and an opportunity to showcase the progress they’ve made as a team. While they may be considered underdogs, the Hawks are stepping onto the field with confidence, prepared to embrace the unknown and take on one of the league’s best.
Win or lose, Hawthorn’s journey to the finals has already been a triumph for a team still establishing its identity in the AFLW. Lucas-Rodd’s leadership, the strategic vision of coach Bec Goddard, and the determination of every player have come together to create a formidable force in women’s football. And as they face Brisbane on Sunday, the Hawks are ready to prove that they belong among the AFLW elite.
For fans and supporters, this game is more than a match; it’s a testament to Hawthorn’s growth, resilience, and determination. No matter the outcome, the Hawks have shown they are a team with a bright future, and their journey in this season’s finals will be a memorable chapter in their story.
