FORMER North Melbourne legend David King has labelled Friday night’s blockbuster between Collingwood and Port Adelaide as one of the games of the year.
Speaking on his weekly segment on AFL 360, King declared the clash would be the standout Friday fixture of the season.
“This will be the best Friday night game we have for the year,” King said.
“I think Port Adelaide, if they bring their best, it will be one hell of a game,”
“It will be a belter.”
The former Kangaroo said most people would just expect the Magpies to win because of their reputation and the fact the game is at Marvel Stadium, but King says the numbers tell a different story.
“If you’re a believer in the numbers, which clearly I am, the profiles of these two teams has changed enormously over the last 12 months,” he said.
“Collingwood are relying more on scoring out of the back half, whereas Port have flicked the other way, which is far more sustainable.
“If you’ve got your doubts on Port Adelaide, well you should think again. They are the hardest team to move the ball against in the competition.”
King has been impressed by the performances of the Power’s young brigade so far in season 2019, but it is Port’s leaders who will be the difference on Friday night.
“They’ve got these kids that we all keep talking about, but their leaders have been unbelievable this year,” the 47-year-old said.
“I think this is a real line in the sand game for Port Adelaide at this early stage.
“If they can come over and get this one, they flip the competition on its head.”
Collingwood host the Power at Marvel Stadium on Friday 3 May commencing at 7.20pm ACST.