Dear Port Adelaide faithful,
This is a unique and very special weekend of footy for our club.
I know you would have already spotted that, but as the games draw closer, their significance just seems to grow.
Port v Norwood
Friday night under lights at Adelaide Oval.
Grand Final rematch.
The most fierce rivalry in the SANFL, playing on the ANZAC Day weekend.
It does not get better than that.
We’ve actually been talking in here all week, about what Port v Norwood actually means.
The feeling is often described in memories of great games, comebacks, fights, players and coaches.
Or the epic family squabbles which occur when a Norwood person somehow marries into the Magpies tribal zone!
The rivalry is old, deep, profound and cherished by both clubs. At its core is gilt-edged respect.
I’d encourage you check out our website for a series of interviews that bring the Port v Norwood story to life. Tim Ginever’s account of the 1988 clash at The Parade, following the tragic death of Anthony Williams, is compelling.
The boys are absolutely champing at the bit to have another crack at the Legs after the disappointment of grand final day.
I know a lot of Port supporters missed out on the GF last year because they were returning from the AFL Preliminary Final in Melbourne.
It was one of the great grand finals of all time. But we lost and we were outnumbered in the stands.
I’d like us to correct that, on both fronts, on Friday night.
The stadium will be opening up undercover seating in the South and West should it rain.
The Game Day Village will be undercover and open.
Why not get there a little early, grab your ticket to avoid the queues at the gate, have a bite to eat and a drink in the Village before soaking up the ANZAC Day ceremony.
Summo and his team are ready to go at it, let’s get there to support them.
Port v Hawthorn
This will be a huge night.
Two great teams, with a lot to play for.
The privilege of playing on the centenary of the Gallipoli landing is not lost on our players.
They will wear jumpers with the names of Port Adelaide players to have served their country in conflict.
They will hear stories of Bob Quinn, Roy Drummond, Tom McDonald and our other soldiers’ bravery in the lead up to the game.
They will line up with members of the Australian Defence Force, listen to the Ode, the Last Post and an ANZAC rendition of Never Tear Us Apart.
Then they’ll get into it!
It will be fever pitch and one of the highlights of their playing careers
This ANZAC weekend is football heaven for the Port Adelaide faithful.
Heavy with historic significance, two brutal encounters against worthy and respected opponents await.
I know we’ll be out in force again on both nights to get our boys over the line.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
Cheers,
KT
