Hawthorn are expecting a fierce contest against Fremantle on Sunday as the recent rivalry between the two teams is reignited.

Hawks midfielder Shaun Burgoyne said he was expecting another tough game against Freo at Aurora Stadium in Launceston, with wintery conditions forecast.

“You’re not two games clear on top of the ladder for no reason, you’re obviously playing some pretty good footy,” he said on Monday.

Hawks the next big challenge

“We’ve built up a pretty good rivalry with Freo over the past couple of years.”

“They’re always tight and tough games.

“It will take our very best to beat them this week.”

The last time Fremantle played Hawthorn was in Round 21 last year at Domain Stadium, with the home side winning by 19.

 Fremantle play Hawthorn at Aurora Stadium on Sunday 12 July. Bounce down is at 3.20pm local time.