After two hugely disappointing years, nobody quite knew where to place Port Adelaide coming into 2017.
Could they return to the mesmerising football that took the AFL by storm in 2013 and 2014? Or were they merely a flash in the pan?
After ten games, the answer is clear: Port are legit.
Placed fifth with six wins and four losses, the boys from Alberton are positioned well for a tilt at a flag.
The Power have destroyed teams below them on the ladder and notched up a monstrous percentage of 148%. This is 10% more than their nearest rival Adelaide and 30% more than GWS in third. In a very even season, this could be pivotal in securing a home finals run come September.
Paddy Ryder has perhaps been the ‘recruit’ of the season. His presence has jump-started Port’s midfield with Brad Ebert, Ollie Wines, Jared Polec and Robbie Gray all having standout seasons. Charlie Dixon looks to be finally delivering on the promise he showed at the Suns and Sam Powell-Pepper has 200-gamer written all over him.
Less heralded are the Power’s defence, who have so far been the stingiest in the league. They may lack the star quality of other back sixes, but Tom Jonas, Tom Clurey, Jack Hombsch and co. work very well as a unit.
While Port have failed to win a game against a team above them on the ladder, they have remained competitive enough in these games to suggest they’ll be able to match the top sides in finals. With a reasonably easy run home and the aforementioned percentage in the bank, a top-four finish is a big chance.
From there, anything’s possible.
B+
