The Hawks hosted SMW Rovers in the final round of the regular season, desperate to find some winning form heading into finals.

The Bulldogs just had pride on the line, with their chance at a finals berth done and dusted.

Heavy rain and strong winds made things difficult but Tatyoon managed to be very accurate in trying conditions.

“There were times where it look like it was snowing, the rain was coming in sideways,” Tatyoon coach Simon Brearley said.

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It was the home side that made the stronger start, booting five goals straight to jump out to a crucial lead.

The game tightened up after half-time, as the Bulldogs edged within two points of the Hawks.

The Hawks battled on through the conditions to march on to a 12.2 (74) to 8.10 (58) win.

Brearley said he was pleased with the way his side fought back after three-quarter-time.

“It was great to see the way we responded after they challenged us,” he said.

“It could have been easy for our guys to say ‘here we go again’ and lay down after some tough weeks but they dug deep when it counted.”

Trevor-John Wanganeen and Adrian Pilgrim had four goals each for the Hawks, while their midfield dominated all day.

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“Our midfield was huge for us. In tough conditions they stood up and led the way,” Brearley said.

Injuries have plagued the Hawks in the past month, but they should bring back some key players into their elimination final against Lismore-Derrinallum this weekend.

“We should have about four more guys up for selection who missed through being unavailable or injury,” Brearley said.

“It is the first time in six to eight weeks we will have guys miss out. It is unfortunate for those guys but it is good to have that depth to pick from.

“I am confident we will have one of our strongest sides of the season ready for the weekend.” Joe Thomson was the only Hawk to pull up with an injury concern from Saturday’s match, with a “sore shoulder” to be assessed during the week.