Ryan O'Keefe does battle with Port's Troy Chaplin
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PORT ADELAIDE
Season to date: Last year’s grand finalists started the season with four consecutive losses, including a cliff-hanger against cross-town rivals Adelaide Crows. But as their fitness kicked in their season got back on track with three big wins, two away from home. However, the talented Hawks defeated Port in round eight to stifle the Power’s momentum.
Recent form
Round 1: Power 14.12. (96) lost to Richmond 17.7 (109)
Round 2: Power 11.12 (78) lost to Sydney Swans 22.14 (146)
Round 3: Power 11.13 (79) lost to Adelaide Crows 12.13 (85)
Round 4: Power 16.8 (104) lost to Brisbane Lions 18.16 (124)
Round 5: Power 19.14 (128) def West Coast 16.8 (104)
Round 6: Power 12.10 (82) def St Kilda 9.7 (61)
Round 7: Power 24.14 (158) def Essendon 15.4 (94)
Round 8: Power 15.12 (102) lost to Hawthorn 17.15 (117)
Last time out: Sydney Swans 22.14 (146) def Power 11. 12 (78), round two, 2008
After a close first quarter the Swans totally dominated the match at the SCG. With Barry Hall kicking five goals and Michael O’Loughlin four, the Swans forward line was on song. And with seven goals to one in the third quarter there was no coming back for the Power. Brendan Lade with 23 hit-outs in the ruck and superstar Shaun Burgoyne, with four goals and 19 disposals, were standouts for the visitor.
The venue: AAMI Stadium
So often a graveyard for opposition teams, the wide open spaces are well suited to the fast-running game of the Power and their skilful midfield.
The coach: Mark Williams
Only the second coach in the club’s short history, he led Power to their first premiership in 2004 and another Grand Final appearance in 2007. Williams is well known for his planning and knowledge of opposition teams, and has reinvented Port Adelaide over recent years. He has 133 wins from 223 games in his career.
Strengths:
Lead by All-Australian ruckman Brendan Lade and backed up by Chad and Kane Cornes, Shaun and Peter Burgoyne, as well as Domenic Cassisi, David Rodan and Steven Salopek, the Power are particularly strong in midfield. But Shaun Burgoyne will miss with suspension.
Missing in action
Key midfielder Shaun Burgoyne has been outed for three matches. Daniel Boyle has a hamstring injury (two weeks), and groin tightness will keep Mitch Farmer out for the same length of time. Nathan Krakouer’s knee will undergo a test this week while Matt Thomas with a planta fascia tear is expected back in a week. Matthew Westhoff’s foot injury is expected to keep him out for another two-three weeks.
The key: Can Port Adelaide cover the loss of Shaun Burgoyne?
Without midfield general Burgoyne, will Port be able to provide their forward line, led by Warren Tredrea, enough scoring opportunities to post a winning score? The returning Chad Cornes and Michael Wilson will be welcome additions to this improving side.
The young gun: Domenic Cassisi
Playing every game in 2007, 184cm Domenic is the perfect midfielder: he can tag opposition players, has skill and running power and can push forward and kick goals when needed.
The questions:
How will Power cover the loss of Burgoyne? Will the Indigenous Round inspire Michael O’Loughlin to another bagful after his six-goal haul last week? Can big Henry Playfair wreak more havoc on the Power defensive unit after last week’s impressive showing?
Did you know?
Kane Cornes holds the record for consecutive Power matches with 105.
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