Hawthorn demolished North Melbourne by 81 points on Saturday for their first win of the AFL pre-season.

Hawks key defender Josh Gibson was helped off the field by trainers at halftime and he did not return for the rest of the match.

But they are confident he will be fit for the round-one Easter Monday blockbuster against Geelong.

Star Hawthorn midfielder Sam Mitchell was best afield with 26 possessions and David Hale kicked four goals as the Hawks belted the ‘Roos 19.8 (122) to 5.11 (41) at Craigieburn, north of Melbourne.

Kangaroos youngster Taylor Hine was booked in the third term for high contact on Jack Gunston.

Hale also was reported for a clash of heads with Leigh Adams and he should be cleared of the charge.

The two teams agreed to call the practice match off midway through the final term because of driving rain.

The Hawks had doubled North’s score at halftime and then went into top gear with nine goals to one in the third term.

Hawthorn had a near full-strength side, while the ‘Roos played several youngsters as they try to settle on a lineup for their round-one clash with Collingwood.