1. Port can match the big boys
It was a loss, but the Power did itself no discredit in their performance. Despite being beaten after three-quarter time, they worked their way back into the game and were contesting the result right until the final siren. Three points on the scoreboard was the difference between four points on the ladder, but clearly Port can match benchmark teams like the Bullies.
2. Footy is a cruel game
That leaves little solace, and the body language of the Power as they hit the deck on the final siren was telling - you want to win the close games. Billed 'game of the year' by commentators, it's one that, unfortuantely, won't feature on the mantlepieces of the Port faithful.
3. Games can be won and lost in the middle
Port was really strong in the middle all day, but a series of stoppage wins at the start of the fourth quarter put paid to hopes of a third straight win.
4. It's a stable line-up
No injuries, and the slimmest of chances Jay Schulz could be available, this is a team that should remain fairly intact against the Dockers. Stability is really important in footy, and while there's a fair degree of inexperience in the current Port line-up, many would agree few deserve to be cut following Saturday's brilliant (though unsuccessful) team performance.
