On Thursday night, Nick Watson kicked six goals and sent the crowd crazy. His talent helped lift the team to an incredible 64-point come from behind win against local rivals, Collingwood. The small forward, affectionately nicknamed “The Wizard” by his teammates, showcased his skills and agility, becoming a constant threat in the forward line throughout the match.
Watson started the game on a six-pointer right off the bat. He netted the opening goal following a precise clearance kick into Hawthorn’s attacking half. That speedy beginning had two wonderful effects — firing up the crowd and imprinting the opponent’s spirit. More than just raising Hawthorn’s stock in the standings with the win, it showed off the tight-knit culture of the roster.
Watson’s on-field performance was bolstered by solid contributions from teammates Lloyd Meek, Jack Gunston and Mabior Chol. Together, they delivered an impressive victory that was all the more impressive considering the circumstances around Will Day’s recent injury. The team’s motivation deepened and sharpened as they played to honor their teammate who had been injured, the late Desmond McKenzie.
“Basically if we lose a game, well, we can’t really afford that,” Watson stated, emphasizing the importance of each match as they push for a strong finish to the season. He added, “We’re sitting around seventh. So indeed, every game is essentially final now, we’re all for it. We’re embracing it all. We are just a small, close community and that is what really inspires us to work hard. When Will Day went down early in the week, it motivated us to go out and make sure we got it done for him.
As the game progressed, Watson humorously took aim at Collingwood’s Darcy Moore following his early goals, saying, “Yeah … Thanks Darcy Moore for that first one.” He acknowledged his partner in crime, Jack Ginnivan, for the perfect support all day long. Jack even challenged an opposing player just inches in front of Moore after one of the goals.
Watson’s dazzling display did not go unnoticed. The energy of the large, enthusiastic crowd definitely got to his performance. “Yeah, I love the big crowd. It just brings more energy, I feel like,” he remarked after the game. His passion showed, as he recalled the amazing experience of being in the mood when playing.
Living in Richmond alongside young Tigers midfielder Tyler Sonsie, Watson has a strong off-field camaraderie to count on, as well. Now, with Ginnivan as a neighbor, that friendship appears to inspire their work on a field. He did so, half-jokingly declaring himself better than both Sonsie and Ginnivan — a touch of humor and competitive spirit that goes with the best teammate theme.
Even through the playful déjà vu mood lighting, Watson kept the emphasis where it needed to be — on this team’s collaborative approach. “But yeah, I just try to be lively early, get everyone involved, kick a few snags, and it was good to get on the end of a few and, yeah, the boys gave it their all as well,” he explained.
