Sicily Injured as Hawks Smash Eagles in Perth West Coast Eagles star defender Jeremy McGovern has been stretchered off the field with a hamstring injury as the Hawthorn Hawks claimed a dominant 66-point victory in Perth. The Hawks stormed out of the blocks, kicking the first five goals of the match to establish a commanding lead. Despite an Eagles resurgence in the second quarter, Hawthorn maintained their advantage, extending their lead to 38 points by halftime. In a critical moment early in the third quarter, McGovern pulled up clutching his left hamstring. The 29-year-old was visibly distressed as he was helped from the field and taken to the change rooms. The absence of McGovern, one of the Eagles’ key defensive pillars, was keenly felt as the Hawks piled on the goals. Hawthorn kicked 10 unanswered goals across the third and fourth quarters to seal a resounding victory. The final scoreline read 16.9 (105) to 5.9 (39) in favor of the Hawks. Jack Gunston led the way for Hawthorn with four goals, while Tom Mitchell and Luke Breust each kicked three. For the Eagles, Liam Ryan and Sam Petrevski-Seton were the only multiple goal-scorers, with two apiece. The victory is a significant boost for the Hawks, who have now won four of their last five games. The Eagles, on the other hand, have suffered their third consecutive defeat and will be sweating on McGovern’s fitness ahead of next week’s clash with the Western Bulldogs. McGovern’s injury is a major concern for Eagles coach Adam Simpson, who described it as a “significant” blow. The veteran defender has played every game this season and is a crucial part of the team’s defensive structure. The extent of McGovern’s injury is expected to be known in the coming days. However, his absence would be a significant setback for the Eagles, who are already dealing with a number of other injuries.Hawthorn’s Commanding Victory Overshadowed by Sicily’s InjuryHawthorn’s Commanding Victory Overshadowed by Sicily’s Injury Hawthorn’s impressive fifth consecutive win came at a disconcerting cost, as captain James Sicily dislocated his shoulder in the team’s resounding 61-point victory over West Coast Eagles at Optus Stadium. The Hawks dominated Sunday’s match from start to finish, with Eagles star Elliot Yeo unable to make a significant impact. Hawthorn soared to a 14.10 (94) to 4.9 (33) victory in front of a crowd of 49,454. Hawthorn’s seventh victory from their past eight games has propelled them to within half a game of eighth-placed Brisbane Lions, putting them in contention for a spot in the top eight. However, their joy is tempered by concerns over Sicily’s fitness. Sicily suffered a shoulder dislocation in a marking contest with Liam Ryan late in the third quarter. “It’s feeling all right now. It was a bit sore at the start, a bit innocuous,” Sicily said when asked about his injury. “I’m not really sure what to make of it yet, we’ll deal with that tomorrow.” Forward Jack Ginnivan also faced injury concerns in the dying minutes after a heavy collision. West Coast also had injury problems, with ruckman Matt Flynn being subbed off in the third quarter due to a damaged right ankle. In-form forward Jake Waterman limped off during the third quarter with a knee injury but managed to return to action after having it strapped. West Coast’s strategy of relying on the aerial prowess of Oscar Allen, Waterman, Jack Darling, and Bailey Williams in their forward line proved ineffective. The Eagles’ first mark inside 50m didn’t come until the final term, while the Hawks had already registered 17 by that stage. The difference between the two teams was primarily due to West Coast’s midfield struggles. Hawthorn dominated the clearance count 38-19, with James Worpel and Conor Nash being particularly instrumental. The center clearance count was 14-4 in favor of the Hawks, and the inside 50m count (60-33) also showcased their superiority. Yeo, who was initially doubtful to play following the death of his father, was limited to 13 disposals and two clearances. Harley Reid, returning from a two-game suspension, finished with 21 possessions and four clearances but made several turnovers. Jeremy McGovern had a solid defensive performance for the Eagles with nine marks and 20 disposals. Despite a dominant opening quarter, Hawthorn struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with players like Mabior Chol, Jack Ginnivan, and Nick Watson missing shots on goal. However, the Hawks managed to kick the only three goals of the term and held their lead in the second quarter. West Coast’s performance worsened in the second half as Hawthorn scored nine goals to two, securing the victory and boosting their percentage.Sicily Injured as Hawks Smash Eagles in Perth In a relentless display of dominance, the Hawthorn Hawks inflicted a humiliating defeat on the West Coast Eagles at Optus Stadium on Saturday night, securing a commanding victory that leaves the Eagles reeling. Sicily, the Hawks’ star defender, suffered a serious ankle injury in the third quarter, casting a shadow over the team’s triumphant performance. The 27-year-old crumpled to the ground in agony after a collision with Eagles forward Jamie Cripps, requiring immediate medical attention. Despite the setback, the Hawks remained unyielding, continuing to pile on the pressure and extend their lead. Midfielders Jaeger O’Meara and Tom Mitchell were instrumental in the team’s success, racking up an impressive 38 and 35 disposals, respectively. In contrast, the Eagles struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match. Key forwards Jack Darling and Josh Kennedy were kept in check by the Hawks’ suffocating defense, while the midfield struggled to compete against the Hawks’ relentless pressure. As the final siren sounded, the Hawks emerged victorious with a convincing 135-point margin, their biggest win over the Eagles in over a decade. The Eagles, on the other hand, were left demoralized, their premiership hopes now hanging in the balance. Sicily’s injury is a major concern for the Hawks, who will be desperately hoping that the full extent of the damage is not as severe as it initially appears. The 27-year-old is a crucial part of the Hawks’ defense and his absence would be a significant blow to the team’s chances of success this season.