HAWTHORN will focus on controlling their emotions in the heat of AFL battle as they seek greater consistency next season.

Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson admitted that his players failed the test when it counted during the 2007 finals.

While the team squeezed past Adelaide in the first elimination final they were beaten in the first semi-final by the Kangaroos, who had suffered a massive 106-point demolition at the hands of Geelong.

As the Hawks resumed training for the 2008 season, Clarkson said the side needed to learn how to remain level-headed.