In the opening match of the 2025 AFL season, Hawthorn secured a 20-point victory over Sydney at the SCG, with a final score of 14.12 (96) to 11.10 (76) despite challenging wet conditions. Both teams showcased strong performances, with Sydney’s Joel Amertey and Hawthorn’s Will Day each netting three goals.
Hawthorn’s fresh faces, Tom Barrass and Josh Battle, significantly impacted the game, complemented by strategic placements in the starting line-up, including Day at full forward and captain James Sicily positioned on the wing. Commentator Gerard Whateley praised the Hawks, describing them as “the heavyweights” rather than mere contenders.
The match started with early nerves evident as Hawthorn’s Karl Amon and Dylan Moore struggled, only managing behinds initially. Sydney’s Chad Warner lit up the scoreboard first, followed by Amertey who added another goal, signifying a strong start for the Swans. However, the Hawks quickly responded, with Moore finally sinking their first goal from a set shot.
Both teams exchanged leads throughout the first quarter, exemplifying an electrifying pace. A concerning moment occurred when Hawthorn’s Mabior Chol fell heavily but later returned to contribute for the remainder of the match. By quarter time, Moore had scored twice, helping to give Hawthorn a narrow advantage.
The second quarter saw a dip in scoring as both teams tightened up defensively. Amertey managed another goal for the Swans, but Hawthorn then seized momentum, scoring four consecutive goals. Lloyd Meek benefited from a 50-metre penalty to solidify Hawthorn’s lead, with Day impressively amassing 19 disposals and three goals by the half.
Unfortunately, Hawthorn’s James Worpel sustained an ankle injury that led to his substitution at the break. The physical intensity of the match ramped up in the second half, igniting a response from the Swans, with Amertey and Warner demonstrating strong coordination that resulted in consecutive goals. Notably, Tom McCartin scored after a four-year hiatus from the scoreboard.
As rain intensified, Sydney deployed debutant Tom Hanily as a tactical substitute for Angus Sheldrick. With one quarter remaining and trailing by just five points, Sydney seemed poised for a comeback. However, despite relentless attacking efforts, they couldn’t convert, and Sicilian’s late-game goal effectively sealed Hawthorn’s victory. To compound Sydney’s difficulties, Taylor Adams exited the game late due to a hamstring injury, leaving them with further challenges as the season unfolds.