PORT ADELAIDE has claimed victory by 50 points in a hard-fought game against Glenelg at Alberton Oval, as it continues its fight for a top-three berth with just four games remaining.
The Magpies had much to prove after last weekend’s disappointing loss to Central District at Elizabeth, and Sturt’s win over Central District on Saturday made a win over Glenelg vital to hold their position on the ladder.
Glenelg started well and gained the first clearance and goal for the game, often leading the Magpies to the ball during the opening term.
The ball remained in the Tigers forward half for first 10 minutes with Port defending hard to prevent them scoring, but the Magpies pushed back after that to kick five goals – Aidyn Johnson with two.
Jarrod Lienert, Jack
Despite the Magpies’ lead, they still had to fight hard for possession through the midfield in the second quarter, with costly turnovers making them work hard to hold an 11-point lead at half time.
The third quarter was tight, but the Magpies gained control in the final minutes and managed to hold most of the possession in their forward line, before taking off in the final quarter.
Port kicked six goals, but it was their increase in pressure and ease of ball movement that kept the Tigers goalless for the quarter.
Aaron Young was instrumental in Port’s midfield assertion and finished with 34 disposals for the game.
Brendon Ah Chee finished just behind Young on 31 disposals - he sparked Port in the third quarter kicking two of his eventual three goals.
The win pushes the Magpies back into second on the ladder, sitting just ahead of Sturt by percentage.
Port Adelaide has a bye next weekend and will come out firing when it takes on South Adelaide at Alberton Oval on Saturday 5 August.
Scoreboard
Port Adelaide 5.2 8.4 10.9 16.12 (108)
Glenelg 3.2 6.5 8.8 8.10 (58)
Goals
Johnson, Ah Chee 3, Neade, Frampton Krakouer, Palmer 2, Lobbe, Monfries
Best
A. Young, Hombsch, Bonner, Lienert, Palmer
Injuries
Marshall (concussion)
At Alberton Oval
