Hawthorn might have won an abundance of premierships in the modern era, but there's little doubt a back-to-back triumph in 2014 would be as satisfying as any of the previous wins, a great achievement given the catalogue of injuries which befell them early this season.

The Hawks couldn't be better placed to do it, their form peaking at the perfect time, having won 12 of their past 14 games, and twice in the past three dispensing of a one-time nemesis in Geelong.

Season averages.

Not that Port Adelaide is going to be any easy hurdle. Far from it. The Power is back to its early season best, ripped Richmond apart in their final, and managed to unpick Fremantle's iron-clad defences in a pulsating second half on Saturday night at Patersons Stadium.

The Power also already has a win over the Hawks to its credit this season, and the sort of midfield power and pace which could really take it to even the most seasoned and steady midfield group in the competition.