1. Power flickering to life
Despite coming off back-to-back losses, Port seemed on the right track and Ken Hinkley's men clicked with a four-quarter performance against the Dees. The Power's midfield nullified Max Gawn's dominance in the hit-outs, pressured the normally high-scoring Demons into mistakes and leveled their season at 5-5, keeping their finals dream alive. Port had winners all over the ground, but Chad Wingard's livewire effort, Charlie Dixon's five goals and skipper Travis Boaks' gut-running would've put a huge smile on Hinkley's face.
2. Dees don't do the NT
Melbourne is in the final season of a three-year deal to play matches in the Northern Territory and an extension is on the cards. Fans are supporting the matches, with 5146 turning up to Traeger Park after crowds of 5655 and 4866 in previous years. But if the developing Dees continue selling MCG games, they need to turn the NT in a 'home' advantage as they push for finals in coming years. This was Melbourne's third-straight loss to Port in Alice Springs, while they haven't notched a win in the past four attempts in Darwin, where they host Freo in round 16.
3. Big Charlie's finding his range
It hasn't been the most explosive start to Charlie Dixon's career at Port, but the prized key forward booted five goals and showed exactly what he's capable of in a commanding first half in Alice Springs. The 202cm giant's work ethic would've been the most pleasing thing for Ken Hinkley, with Dixon pushing up to the wings then racing back to goal and catching Tom McDonald out on the counter-attack. Credit to McDonald for tightening up after halftime and holding Dixon to one major after the long break, but it was a confidence-booster for the star recruit.
Jarman Impey contributes to the Power's win with two goals. Picture: AFL Media 
4. Dees can't convert Gawn's dominance
Max Gawn's brilliant form dipped in the previous two matches, but the 208cm big man must've been licking his lips at the prospect of taking on the Power's makeshift and inexperienced ruck division. Gawn completely controlled the hit-outs (48) against Jackson Trengove (10) and Dougal Howard (three), however the Dees couldn't take full toll, losing centre clearances (14-13) and clearances (33-32). Gawn finished with two majors, eight marks and 18 touches, and certainly wasn't to blame for Melbourne's fifth loss.
5. DBJ a rising star?
Since making his debut in Round 3, Darcy Byrne-Jones has quickly become a fan favourite. His relentless attack in the footy, courageous play and silky, composed skills have shown he belongs at AFL level. Named in the best with 23 disposals and a goal, Byrne-Jones will now surely be given the nod of a Rising Star nomination.
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