PORT Adelaide’s coaches could enter the club’s Round 4 clash with Sydney tempted to swing some changes at selection following a run of two disappointing defeats.
On a positive note, the medical rooms at Alberton haven’t seen much action in the past week, with a near full strength list available to face the Swans at the SCG.
Defender Trent McKenzie will be pushing for a recall after injuring his ankle in the Round 1 win over the Lions. The former Sun will be assessed during the week to determine his availability.
Meanwhile, hard nut Lachie Jones will also be assessed at training after reporting tightness in his right hamstring after Saturday’s Showdown loss.
Dashing defender Ryan Burton will be sidelined for another week as he serves the final game of his suspension for rough conduct against Collingwood’s Jamie Elliott in Round 2.
The Magpies also suffered defeat in the SANFL Showdown, but several players put forward cases to be considered for selection.
Youngster Josh Sinn was impressive against the Crows, gathering 19 disposals and seven tackles as he was deployed more through the midfield by SANFL mentor Tyson Goldsack.
The former first-round pick was a pre-season bolter last year, making his AFL debut in Round 2 before a torrid run with injury put an early end to his season, managing just two more games at SANFL level in 2022.
His dash of pace and lethal left foot could be a welcome addition at AFL level if he is deemed to have built up enough fitness following an interrupted pre-season.
High-flying forward Mitch Georgiades kicked 1.1 from 14 touches after dropping back from the AFL side, while Dylan Williams (22 disposals and 11 rebound 50s) was poised in a new defensive role and the experienced Trent Dumont (19 touches and seven tackles) stepped up as a leader through the midfield after captain Cam Sutcliffe was forced from the ground early due to injury.
Tall defender Jake Pasini was also solid in a backline under constant pressure as he continues to push his case for an AFL debut that was close to coming to fruition in 2022.
Port will name its side to face the Swans on Thursday evening, with Round 4 action kicking off at the SCG from 7:30pm (AEDT).
New South Wales based supporters are encouraged to head to the club’s Captain’s Run on Friday night, which will be an open training with autograph and photo opportunities available after the session. Meanwhile, there will also be a pre-match supporter function at the Paddington RSL.
Those heading to the game wanting to sit with fellow Port Adelaide supporters can click here to purchase tickets in the club’s supporter bay.
Captain's Run
SCG
Friday 7 April from 3:00pm
Enter via Gate A
Player autographs / photos at the end of the session
Pre-Match Supporter Function
Paddington RSL
Saturday 8 April from 4:30pm
220/232 Oxford St, Paddington