PORT ADELAIDE will be hoping to continue the form it displayed in last weekend's memorable victory over Sturt, when it faces traditional rivals Norwood at Alberton Oval this Sunday.
The Magpies beat the Double Blues by 20 points in what coach Matthew Lokan described as a must-win clash.
Those feelings were echoed by Lokan about this weekend’s match against the third-placed Redlegs in Round 10.
"Port v Norwood at Alberton Oval is always a massive game, and one that will set up the rest of our season,” Lokan said.
"We are starting to get some numbers back and some consistency with our line-up, and we are really looking forward to this week."
This week's Round 10 clash means the halfway point of the SANFL season has passed, and the ladder position is beginning to become an important factor.
The Magpies sit just outside the top five on percentage (2% behind the fifth-placed Sturt) and games against teams ahead of them are vital.
With matches against ninth and 10th placed West Adelaide and North Adelaide to follow the Redlegs clash, a win this weekend may define the rest of the season.
Port will be hoping for a much-improved performance against Norwood compared to its Round 4 match at The Parade.
The Magpies were outplayed during the second half, under lights on Easter Thursday, and were defeated by 34 points.
Jack Trengove continued his instrumental early season run of form, finishing with 37 disposals, but Port will likely be without his services for this match as he continues to recover from a leg injury.
The Magpies struggled to shut down Norwood’s Lewis Johnston who had 35 disposals, while Peter Bampton, Anthony Wilson and youngster Cameron Taheny were damaging in the forward line with three goals apiece.
Suspension ruled out Norwood star, back-to-back Magarey Medallist Mitch Grigg for the Easter Thursday clash, but he should make an appearance at Alberton Oval this Sunday.
The Magpies were boosted with the inclusions of Charlie Dixon and Ollie Wines for the Sturt match, which drew a crowd of 5270, and the pair are set to again feature in the line-up this Sunday.
Port Adelaide hosts Norwood at Alberton Oval on Sunday afternoon with the first bounce commencing at 2.40pm.
Prior to the Magpies’ huge clash with the Redlegs, there is an Offical Pre-Match President's Luncheon starting at 12pm, with a two-course meal and drinks provided.
As well as celebrating the rivalry between the clubs, for the first time, Port Adelaide's plans to celebrate the club's 150th year in 2020 will be revealed.
To secure a table, book now at: events@pafc.com.au
SANFL preview: Port vs Norwood
A look ahead at one of the greatest rivalries in the SANFL.