The clash between Hawthorn and Adelaide was anticipated to provide insights into the teams' finals prospects, but instead, it turned into a hard-fought battle filled with missed opportunities. Jai Newcombe emerged as the hero for Hawthorn, securing a three-point win with a late goal. The game was marked by a series of behinds from both sides, with the Crows particularly disappointed by their inability to convert chances. Connor Macdonald's crucial goal gave Hawthorn the lead for the first time, ultimately leading to their victory.

At the start of the match, the chilly conditions in Launceston set the stage for a challenging contest. Adelaide dominated early on, but Hawthorn fought back in the second half. Ben Keays shone for the Crows on his 150th game, while Newcombe's impact was pivotal for Hawthorn. The game was characterized by intense pressure, resulting in few clean shots at goal. Mabior Chol's performance encapsulated this inconsistency, but he played a crucial role in Hawthorn's late surge.

Final Score: Hawthorn 6.11 (47) - Adelaide 5.14 (44)

Key Stats:

• Goals: Hawthorn: Gunston 2, Macdonald 2, Chol, Newcombe; Adelaide: Keays 2, Curtain, Cumming, Rankine
• Best Players: Hawthorn: Weddle, Impey, Gunston, Moore, Meek; Adelaide: Dawson, Soligo, Curtain, Keays, Worrell
• Injuries: Hawthorn: Nil; Adelaide: Nil
• Substitutes: Hawthorn: Changkuoth Jiath (replaced Henry Hustwaite at half-time); Adelaide: Brodie Smith (replaced Luke Pedlar in the third quarter)