Had Hawthorn found a way to lose the unloseable AFL preliminary final against Adelaide, much would have been made of their inaccuracy in front of goal.

Thirty-two scoring shots to 22 should amount to much more than a five-point victory.

As should 64 inside 50s to just 38 from the Crows.

And when looking for reasons as to how the Hawks found a way to win, many of the plaudits will naturally go to human highlights reels Cyril Rioli and Lance Franklin.

Almost inevitably, it was the dynamic duo who booted Hawthorn's last two goals of the match after substitute Graham Johncock had put the Crows in front.

Rioli was among the very best players on the ground - an accolade that could also have been awarded to Franklin if not for his profligacy in front of goal which netted him 3.5, along with one shot that sailed out of bounds on the full.

But what was also important for the Hawks was that they had more legitimate scoring targets than Adelaide, with Luke Breust and former Crow Jack Gunston each chiming in with two goals.

Breust's first shot in the second quarter was a dreadful shank, although he made up for that shortly afterwards with a goal after marking a quick kick from Brad Sewell.

His second came in the third term, courtesy of a superb assist from Franklin.

"With my first set shot I scuffed it a little bit but I forgot about it and the second one was better," said the 21-year-old Breust, who also accumulated 23 disposals in a solid all-round effort.

"It's good to get a couple of goals early because it gets you into the game.

"And then it was Cyril late doing what he does and that got us back on top."

The multi-pronged Adelaide attack contrasted with the Crows forward set-up - which largely revolved around the efforts of Kurt Tippett and Taylor Walker with four goals apiece.