Hawthorn defeats Fremantle to reach a home preliminary final

Hawthorn defeated Fremantle 10.12 (72) to 5.10 (40) in the qualifying final on Thursday night at Optus Stadium. The victory earns the Hawks a home preliminary final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Hawthorn held the minor premiers to a single goal during the first half through a persistent team-pressure strategy. Will Day, returning from a two-year period defined by foot and shoulder injuries, contributed 24 disposals and eight clearances in his finals debut. Coach Sam Mitchell and the team overcame underdog status to secure the win, ending the club's recent absence from the final rounds of the tournament. The loss marks an exit for Fremantle from the qualifying bracket.

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