PORT ADELAIDE faces Central District at Alberton Oval on Sunday afternoon in what will be the final home game of Steven Summerton’s career.
Summerton, who has played 224 League games for the Magpies, announced yesterday that he would retire from the SANFL at season’s end.
Magpies coach Matthew Lokan says it was an absolute
“I played in Summo’s first game back in 2006 I think it was,” Lokan said.
“To play with him, and now have the ability to coach him in his final year is something pretty special.
“He is a legend of the club and hopefully we can get a big crowd down at Alberton.”
For Lokan, a win for the fans and the skipper in front of his home crowd for the last time would be a fitting result.
“It’s a very special occasion for the football club,” he said.
“It’s a moment the players will acknowledge and hopefully they can bring a really consistent four-quarter effort.
“If we are to play consistent footy then I think we can have a good win.”
The Magpies have struggled to impact the scoreboard in recent weeks, and Lokan believes the inclusions of Lindsay Thomas and Sam Powell-Pepper will help improve that.
“Lindsay has been an important player for us this season,” he said.
“His ability to win the ball in our forward 50 and hit the scoreboard, as well as, setting up teammates is crucial.
“Peps is a bull in the midfield and we expect him to lead our young group.
“The likes of him, Trengove, and Snelling winning the ball in the
Port has lost its last six games but will be buoyed by the fact they beat Centrals earlier in the season.
Playing at My Money House Oval in Round 10, the Magpies led by Karl Amon, Dom Barry, and Jimmy Toumpas in the midfield and Thomas up forward were victorious by 18 points.
“There has been plenty of footy played since we last took on the Dogs but we had a solid win against them last time,” Lokan said.
“Our midfield was able to get on top in that contest and Thomas was great in that game kicking three.
“We want to bring that same aggression and attitude into the clash on Sunday.
The Magpies clash with the Dogs starts at 1.10pm at Alberton Oval.
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