A NIGHT of errant kicking has cost Port Adelaide a chance to strengthen its place inside the top four after a second half Richmond surge saw the Tigers run out 13-point winners at the Adelaide Oval.
After an arm-wrestle for two quarters, Richmond broke through during time-on in the third quarter to kick six consecutive goals through debutant Tyson Stengle, Dan Butler (two goals each), and Martin and Rioli (one).
Port was stronger in the first half, but surrendered its chance at a better lead by kicking 41 points from 16 scoring shots.
Inconsistency in attack remains one of the biggest thorns in Port’s side.
The Power kicked 3.7 from set shots which, when coupled with a score of just 22 points after half time, put paid to the home side’s hopes.
But Richmond’s defensive six – led by Alex Rance – stiffened after half time and was crucial in setting up the Tiger’s late game assault.
Chad Wingard’s 39-disposal performance was one of the few upsides for Port – the former forward continuing his evolution into a quality midfielder.
Port Adelaide plays West Coast at Domain Stadium on Sunday 9 July at 2.40pm AWST.
SCOREBOARD
PORT ADELAIDE 1.6 5.11 6.14 8.15 (63)
RICHMOND 1.4 3.8 7.10 11.10 (76)
Goals
Ebert, Dixon, Neade, Trengove, S. Gray, R. Gray
Best
Wingard, Wines, Ryder, Jonas
Injuries
Hombsch (knee - replaced in the selected side by Neade), Hartlett (corked thigh)
Crowd
39,979 at the Adelaide Oval
