PORT ADELAIDE could almost return to full strength for its first week of finals, as the side prepares to welcome back several key players from injury.
Todd Marshall, Trent McKenzie and Scott Lycett all missed Round 24 due to injury, however all three have been back on the training track over the past week.
Lycett played in the club’s SANFL final on Sunday after having surgery in early August to clean out the meniscus in his left knee.
The experienced ruckman will be a handy inclusion, as will defender McKenzie, who has all but recovered from a partially torn PCL.
Key forward Marshall missed the final minor round game with hip soreness but has rejoined training and is expected to be available.
Orazio Fantasia had a huge impact in the Magpies’ narrow loss to Central District on the weekend, kicking four goals, with the 27-year-old not featuring at AFL level since Round 3.
The mercurial forward could provide plenty extra spark to the side, in what is expected to be a tough clash at the Gabba on Saturday night.
Riley Bonner and Jase Burgoyne had solid showings in the SANFL on Sunday, with both players coming in and out of the AFL side throughout the year.
Either player could provide support in the backline or on the wing if required this weekend.
Port Adelaide will name its side for the Qualifying Final against Brisbane on Thursday evening at 5:50pm ACST.
Port Adelaide supporters in Brisbane are encouraged to attend the club's open Captain's Run, as well as the official supporter group pre-match event:
Captain’s Run
Friday 8 September
The Gabba
From approximately 3:30pm
Enter via Gate 2 from 3:15pm
All supporters welcome
Supporter Group pre-match event
Saturday 9 September
The Shafston Hotel
3 Lytton Road, East Brisbane
4pm-7pm
All supporters welcome
