Phil Davis has listed his biggest concerns for Hawthorn ahead of Friday’s qualifying final against the Bulldogs.

Heading into their first finals appearance since 2018, the Hawks are one of the teams in good form in the competition, having won 13 of their last 16 games, including the last five by an average margin of 87 points.

While they may look like they are ready to challenge for the championship, their fast-paced, exciting style of play did not prove effective in the finals and former GWS captain Phil Davis fears their style of play may not withstand the pressures of September.

“These are two related things,” Davis said. SEN Whateley.

“Will their system work in the final? The game changes (in September).

“Their style of play, yes, is based on good fundamentals, but they play with that space, that flair and that overlapping run that is definitely unique and exciting to watch.

“But if that process slows down, I wonder if they will be able to score enough goals?

“That’s my biggest concern. I’m just worried if teams can cut that down a bit, those overlapping handballs, those close-range goals, those easy goals from the goal area, if they’re halved, if they find enough goals to win.

“That is my biggest question mark.”

Given the often aggressive and tense style of play that usually characterises do-or-die clashes, Davis believes Hawthorn’s running and spreading may not be rewarded with the same freedom.

“(Their style) doesn’t seem as natural (in the final) as some teams, simply because of their love of space,” he said.

“I think historically, teams that are very good at fighting for the ball and clearing the ball have done well in finals for a long time.

“They definitely have some of that in their DNA, but they rely a lot on their little ones, which is a little different.

“I have to admit that (Hawthorn) is the only side I haven’t got my eyes on.

“I’ll sit and watch like everyone else, but I predict the Dogs will be too good.”

Hawthorn will be looking to put in a good performance on Friday night as they battle for victory of the season against the Bulldogs.