PORT ADELAIDE has started its SANFL season preparation with an emphatic 81-point win over North Adelaide at Alberton.
The game got off to a competitive start with the Roosters kicking the first goal for the game as both sides traded play through the midfield.
The Magpies’ early handpasses were risky at times and cost them precious opportunity inside forward 50, but Jesse Palmer eventually broke through for their first score midway through the quarter with a splendid goal.
The Magpies managed to gain control of the game and held the ball in their forward half for the majority of the second quarter, but poor passes and the Roosters' positioning to intercept kept them scoreless for the first 10 minutes.
Willem Drew was strong through the midfield for the Magpies, with his skilful hands pushing the ball forward into their attacking half numerous times.
Five goals for the term opened a handy buffer for the home side, which they built on after half time.
The game was still hotly contested through the midfield, but the Magpies now had the game firmly under control, with the ball spending most of the quarter in their forward half.
The Roosters managed to squeeze through the Magpies’ strong attacking midfield just twice, and only kicked two behinds.
Logan Austin was effective in the Magpies’ back line in the second half with quick intercepts and strong defensive pressure.
The Roosters had more opportunities to score after the final change, but their goal kicking was off target and punished again by another five goals from Port, despite more even game time spent in each team’s forward 50.
The Magpies will next play an internal trial on Friday 17 March at 6.00pm at Alberton. Entry is free.
Scoreboard
Port Adelaide 3.3. 8.6 11.11 16.14 (110)
North Adelaide 2.1. 3.1 3.3 4.5 (29)
Goals
Reynolds 3, Frampton, Miller, Johnson, Marshall 2, Snelling, Drew, Young, Ladhams, Palmer 1
PORTADELAIDEFC.COM.AU's best
Drew, Frampton, Austin, Reynolds, Marshall
