1. The guns still have the goods

As you’d expect, Robbie Gray had his magic touch in full effect as the Power’s most destructive forward line option. Gray's four goals were important (especially as Port fought to overcome a strong St Kilda in the first half-and-a-bit) but he also provided some excitement around the ground.

Note. We strongly recommend watching him set up Brendon Ah Chee in the highlights reel above. 

Despite some early turnovers, Brad Ebert’s influence when the Power fell 21 points behind cannot be denied - he was tough up forward and booted two critically timed major scores. Chad Wingard was also supremely tough all afternoon. 

And what about Jasper Pittard? He was strong across half back all day long.

Yes, when the chips are down, you need to have your top flight leading from the front.

2. Charlie Dixon isn’t just a goal kicker ... he's the perfect bait

Dixon's size profile and deadly boot are a potent mix for Port Adelaide.

Yes, he can take a grab and kick a goal, but because he offers Port a monstrous presence up forward, he also a magnet for top opposition defenders.

Because he also competes at ground level, both Jay Schulz and Justin Westhoff can patrol the 50 with greater latitude (Westhoff particularly seemed to enjoy some freedom in attack).

Dixon booted three, should probably have had four, and if he can win a few more marking contests will be crucial to the Power's scoreboard performance.

3. The legs are there - but that doesn't make a good team

Port Adelaide had the fitness to run over the Saints when the game was on the line, called on its conditioning to get back on top and was able to blitz the visitors in the final term. 

But the Power can't be complacent - St Kilda was super impressive on Sunday - and fitness cannot be solely relied on to win games of football.

4. Defensive 50 turnovers are brutal

Ken Hinkley is OK with Port Adelaide making mistakes, and both the playing group was right in saying their targets exiting defensive 50 were good ones.

But they need to hit them - had the Power's field kicking been better, there would have been a good deal more corridor entries from defence in the first half.

Execution was lacking and with the Power's kicking efficiency tracking below 50 per cent at one point, the boots might be getting a work out at training this week. 

Question Time

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