HAWTHORN has broken away in the fourth quarter to re-establish itself as a premiership contender, seeing off a dogged Melbourne challenge to win by 35 points at the MCG on Saturday afternoon.

Veteran Jack Gunston, fresh off kicking his 500th career goal last week, spearheaded the Hawks' fourth-term lift, kicking three goals in the quarter, and was ably assisted by Mabior Chol with two of his own to finish 13.13 (91) to 7.14 (56).

The two sides traded blows across the first three quarters, with the margin never deviating beyond 12 points, before Gunston kicked into gear in the final term.

Demons captain Max Gawn (32 hitouts, 19 disposals) continued his excellent run of form, while Jake Bowey (28 disposals, 587m gained) continued his strong run of form.

More to come...