The respect is mutual between Sydney Swans defender Heath Grundy and Geelong star forward Tom Hawkins, who are likely to clash when the two teams meet this weekend at Simonds Stadium.

Yesterday Grundy lauded the performance of the big Cat this season, but today it was Hawkins who was full of praise.

“I’ve had Heath Grundy in the past and I’ve had a really good battle against him,” Hawkins told CatsTV.

“He’s a great player and we’re of similar sizes and have similar strengths, so I’m looking forward to playing against Heath.”

Grundy produced an impressive performance over Hawkins the last time the two sides met, keeping the forward to just one goal in the round 13 clash at the SCG.

Hawkins, who has kicked one goal in the last four encounters with the Swans, added that the Swans backline, are one of the toughest line-ups for an opposition forward line.

“Ted Richards is down there as well and he’s had a super year, so it’s a big challenge for us as a team and for us as a forward line,” he said.

“The way (Sydney) defends as a team makes it hard as a forward, but there are going to be opportunities on the weekend where we will be able to kick some goals, so I look forward to the challenge.”

While Geelong are not a chance of claiming a top four finish this season, Hawkins said taking on Sydney in the final round would be the perfect gauge for their finals’ preparations.

“Sydney has proved throughout the whole year that they are one of the best sides in the AFL, so it’s a real test for us,” he said.

“We’re going to have to work hard to get over the top of them because they are a quality side.

“We’re really looking forward to the challenge.”