ON A DAY when Norwood commemorated 40 and 10 year premiership anniversaries, Port Adelaide was unable to spoil the party, going down by 82 points at The Parade.

Hamish Hartlett’s side was looking to make it two consecutive wins, but struggled to contain the Redlegs' forward half bombardment. 

The Magpies got off to a hot start with a centre clearance goal from Tom Anastasopoulos to begin proceedings. But after an impressive first 10 minutes, the strength and experience of Norwood’s bigger bodies prevailed, resulting in an onslaught of forward-50 entries (68 vs 28) that ultimately overwhelmed the Magpies' defence.

Captain Nick Moore made his return game after missing weeks with a leg injury. Image: Brandon Hancock.

Coach Hartlett lamented his side’s inability to maintain early momentum.

“Clearly we were up and about early, coming forward, pressuring well, kicked a nice early goal. But yeah, outside of that first 10 minutes, we weren't in the fight for long enough around the contest,” Hartlett said.

“We knew that Norwood was going to play four quarters of a contested brand of footy. We scouted it, that's the way they've been playing all year. And the message couldn't be any stronger pre-game that that was what was going to happen."

15:11

Highlights: Port Adelaide v Norwood | PTV

Port Adelaide and Norwood clash in Round 11 of SANFL action.

Hartlett praised the efforts of his defenders, pointing to standout performances from Dylan Williams (27 disposals, seven marks) and Tom Clurey (21 Disposals, six marks) who vied to stem the bleeding.

“The defenders saw plenty of the footy down there unfortunately but yeah, it was really pleasing to see Dylan (Williams) probably play his best game for the year so far I would think and Tommy Clurey just continues to play well every week,” Hartlett said.

Dylan Williams was among the coaches' best, with 27 touches. Image: Brandon Hancock.

Other silver linings referenced by Coach Hartlett included the development of his side’s exciting young talent, citing performances from Tom Anastasopoulos (three goals) and Will Lorenz (20 disposals, two goals), as well as an impressive display of intercept work from emerging defender Xavier Walsh.

Kyle Marshall will enter concussion protocols after a heavy knock, with other casualties to be assessed throughout the week. 

Port Adelaide will look to get back on the winners list when they take on Central District next Saturday afternoon at Alberton Oval.

Scoreboard
Port Adelaide 2.3  3.4  4.6  5.9  (39)
Norwood 5.3  10.7  13.9  18.14  (122)

Best: Jackson, Lorenz, Williams, Anastasopoulos, Clurey
Goals: Anastasopoulos 3, Lorenz 2