Round 9 in the AFL begins with a cracking contest on Thursday night between Fremantle and Hawthorn. Both clubs have had excellent first thirds of the season and sit firmly inside the top four on the ladder. This is certainly one match you don’t want to miss!
We bring you our full preview and expert tips for the Dockers vs Hawks below, with odds thanks to Dabble!
Fremantle vs Hawthorn Prediction & Betting Tips: AFL 2026 Round 9
Seven Straight for Freo
Fremantle enters Round 9 in rare form, sitting second on the ladder with a seven and one record. This marks the first time under Justin Longmuir that the side has managed seven consecutive victories, a streak built on the competition's stingiest defensive system. The Dockers are currently conceding a league-low average of only 68 points per game, making them an incredibly difficult prospect to break down at home. This defensive discipline is complemented by an engine room led by Caleb Serong and Andrew Brayshaw, helping the team rank first across the AFL for effective clearances.
Hawks Clearance Domination
Hawthorn travels to Perth sitting just one spot behind in third place with a 6-1-1 record after a thrilling draw against Collingwood. Despite missing some key personnel in the forward half, the Hawks have developed into the most dangerous transition team in the competition, leading the league for scores launched from defensive 50. Nick Watson has been a standout performer with 20 goals already this season, while Connor Macdonald is coming off a massive 28 disposal and three goal game. The Hawks midfield showed its high ceiling last week by winning centre clearances 19-5, although somewhat failed to capitalise on their dominance.
H2H History & Betting Trends
Recent history at Optus Stadium heavily favours the home side, as Fremantle has successfully defended its turf in their last five encounters with Hawthorn. Their most recent clash in late 2025 resulted in a 77-64 win for the Dockers, which continued a trend of low scoring and defensive battles. Looking at the betting trends, Fremantle has established a habit of starting fast against the Hawks, winning seven of the last eight first quarters in their head to head matchups.
Dockers or Hawks? Here’s our Best Bet!
While Fremantle is the home favourite, the +5.5 point spread provides some value for a Hawthorn side built to disrupt the Dockers' system. The Hawks' defensive trio of Tom Barrass, Josh Battle, and James Sicily possesses the aerial dominance to neutralise Fremantle's key forwards and spark transition from the back half. Furthermore, Ned Reeves currently leads the league for hit-outs to advantage, ensuring the Hawks' midfielders get the first look at the football. Considering the Dockers have appeared shaky against lesser opponents recently, a disciplined Hawthorn unit looks more than capable of getting on top in this contest.
Hawthorn +5.5
$1.91 (1.5 Units)
Fremantle vs Hawthorn Prop Bet
Cam Mackenzie is in some great form at the moment and is coming off a season-best 24 disposals against the Magpies last weekend, which eclipsed his previous season-best mark of 22 which he recorded against the Suns the week prior. With Will Day set to come back in the next 2-3 weeks, Mackenzie is one player who will be desperate to remain in good form to keep his spot in the side. He looks over the odds for 20+ disposals on Thursday.
Cam Mackenzie 20+ Disposals
$2.25
Fremantle vs Hawthorn Same Game Multi
Nick Watson 2+ Goals: The Wizard continues to hit the scoreboard and is averaging 2.5 goals per game this season. He should be in for another strong game in a high-scoring affair on Thursday.
Shai Bolton Anytime Goal Scorer: He is having an excellent season and is averaging 1.3 goals. He’s kicked at least one goal in 7/8 games this year.
Cam Mackenzie 20+ Disposals: For the reasons mentioned above in our prop bet.
Same Game Odds: $4.20 at Dabble
Fremantle vs Hawthorn Match Info & Betting Odds
Date: Thursday 7th May
Time: 8:10pm AEST
Location: Optus Stadium, Perth
Odds: Fremantle $1.72 vs Hawthorn $2.15
Line: -5.5
Points: 184.5
Where to Watch Fremantle vs Hawthorn
You can watch the Dockers vs Hawks live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
Back in our 2026 AFL Tips at Dabble!
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