Box Hill VFL players in line for call-up to winless Hawthorn

A HANDFUL of Box Hill players are pushing for a call-up to struggling Hawthorn after impressing in the VFL side’s season opening win.

Jono O'Rourke impressed for Box Hill in its win over Footscray. Picture: Josie Hayden

A HANDFUL of Box Hill players could be in line for a call up to struggling Hawthorn following its 0-4 start to the season.

The club’s VFL affiliate started the season on a winning note with a two-point win over reigning premier Footscray on Good Friday with several players staking their claim for selection.

With Hawthorn suffering an 86-point loss to Geelong yesterday and sitting on the bottom of the AFL ladder, senior coach Alastair Clarkson could ring the changes.

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Box Hill coach Chris Newman said 2015 premiership player Ryan Schoenmakers impressed leading a young forward line while midfielder Jono O’Rourke, who joined the Hawks from GWS in 2015, and former Melbourne ruck/forward Jack Fitzpatrick put their hand up.

“There’s quite a few of our Hawthorn-listed players who played really good games,’’ he said.

“Some of our young guys playing in the forward line were able to get some good experience and chemistry with Ryan which was really pleasing.

“Jono played three quarters and was really pivotal in giving us first use. He was really clean around the contest and his GPS was through the roof, so his work rate was quite good on the day. He ended up with 25 disposals from three quarters so really good output from him.

Jack Fitzpatrick could be in line for a senior recall. Picture: Colleen Petch.

Premiership play Ryan Schoenmakers played well for Box Hill. Picture: George Salpigtidis

“Guys like Jack, he was quite solid throughout the day and kicked two goals, and Kade Stewart was really good.

“I think most guys who went out there who were Hawthorn listed played their role and did their bit and hopefully a few guys get their opportunity.”

Sam Switkowski and Chris Jones combined for six goals in the 15.5 (95) to 14.9 (93) result at the Whitten Oval, while captain David Mirra set the tone and provided drive out of the backline in a best-on-ground display.

Newman said the victory was a confidence booster for his team which sported eight debutants.

“We were really happy with winning the critical contests around the ground and our ability to get a hand in or a smother, all those things really counted,’’ he said.

“It was a game of momentum and it seesawed through out the day, so to get the result after a few close games through the pre-season was really good for the playing group.”

The Hawks are home to Coburg this Saturday.

The sides played out a draw in the final practice match of the pre-season a fortnight ago.