PORT ADELAIDE will play Sturt at Peter Motley Oval on Sunday in a finals-shaping match.
The Magpies and Double Blues have both locked in a finals berth, but are vying for a place in the top three and the all-important double chance in September.
With two rounds to go, top seeds Glenelg and Adelaide sit three points and one point clear respectively of the Magpies, and can lock in top three finishes with wins this weekend.
The Magpies played the Double Blues in Round 9 in front of a big crowd at Alberton Oval, who witnessed the home side record an impressive 20-point victory. The result kick-started a run of five consecutive wins for the Magpies.
Charlie Dixon made his return to competitive football in that game, playing his first game following a long-term leg injury.
The spearhead kicked five goals and took six marks, while club co-captain Ollie Wines also returned with 32 disposals, 10 tackles and six clearances in a big day for the club.
Magpies coach Matt Lokan said this Sunday would be an important finals-like game between two quality sides.
“It is a huge game and important in the context of our season to keep rolling on, we are playing some good footy but it doesn’t get any easier,” Lokan told portadelaidefc.com.au.
“Sturt are a good side at Unley, and then we go out to Centrals to finish the season in what will be Roy Laird’s last game.
“We need to keep playing well and hopefully set ourselves up for a good finals series.”
The Double Blues had been in fantastic form over the last five weeks before dropping their last game to the Redlegs, but will be looking for redemption.
Small forward Josh Hone has had a fantastic year and sits third on the League goalkicking tally with 31 goals, while Mark Evans has provided plenty of support in attack with 28 majors.
Zane Kirkwood and Sam Colquhoun are always dangerous and will provide an intriguing midfield battle with Port’s inform on-ballers.
Port midfielders Willem Drew, Joe Atley, Jack Trengove, Sam Mayes and Kane Farrell have been in excellent form all year, while Port’s ruck stocks have also been very damaging.
Port will take on Sturt Peter Motley Oval from 2.10pm on Sunday afternoon.
