An experienced spearhead headlines a list of players in the mix for selection for Port Adelaide’s big semi-final against Greater Western Sydney on Saturday night.
Forward Charlie Dixon - who recently agreed a one-year contact extension - has rejoined the main group at training this week and is hopeful of showing he has overcome a foot injury that has kept him out of the side since round 20.
With defenders Dylan Williams and Trent McKenzie in some doubt due to respective hamstring and ankle injuries, young backmen Jase Burgoyne and Jake Pasini could come into selection considerations. Burgoyne has not featured in the AFL lineup since the round 21 trip to Geelong, while Pasini came close to making his AFL debut last season before suffering a long-term knee injury.
Small forwards Francis Evans and Orazio Fantasia would add a different dynamic in the front half with their speed and goal scoring nous. Evans averages a goal per game in his ten AFL games for the club this season and while Fantasia has not been part of the lineup since round 3, his late season SANFL form - including ten goals in his last three games - makes him an interesting prospect for selectors.
Ruck Sam Hayes, midfielder Hugh Jackson and Evans were the emergencies that travelled to Brisbane with the side for last weekend’s qualifying final, while midfielder/forward Jackson Mead - who polled well in the SANFL’s Magarey Medal voting - is also in the mix.
Port Adelaide will name its side to tackle the Giants on Thursday evening at 5:50pm.
The game at Adelaide Oval gets underway at 7:10pm on Saturday night.
Supporters are encouraged to march together to the game from Festival Plaza (access off King William Street) to bring a sea of colour and noise to the Oval.
From 5.30pm there will be plenty of giveaways from valued club partners including KFC, Red Bull, and doughnuts from Vilis, before the march through Festival Plaza commences across the footbridge from 6pm sharp.
