UTAS Stadium will play host to Saturday's Round 17 AFL game between Hawthorn Hawks and Melbourne Demons. The game kicks off at 1:15 pm with Hawthorn Hawks heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Hawthorn Hawks vs. Melbourne Demons game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Saturday July 4, 2026 at 1:15 pm

Where: UTAS Stadium

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Hawthorn Hawks vs Melbourne Demons Odds

Hawthorn Hawks vs Melbourne Demons Preview

Hawthorn and Melbourne meet in Launceston on Saturday with both clubs chasing valuable premiership points as the finals race intensifies. The Demons stunned the Hawks by 39 points when the sides met earlier this season, with Max Gawn dominating through the middle and Kade Chandler proving influential. Melbourne’s challenge has been producing that level away from the MCG, where it has struggled throughout 2026. Hawthorn, meanwhile, enters full of confidence after defeating GWS last week behind another dominant midfield display from Jai Newcombe. The Hawks will, however, need to cover the loss of exciting forward Nick Watson, whose absence places greater responsibility on an already balanced attacking group.