SUMMARY
This looks like an easy assignment for the Power as they put the finishing touches on their finals preparations. Last weekend's gritty 17-point victory ove the reigning premiers ensured the Power return to the finals for the first time since 2014. If they get an all-important double chance or host an elimination final remains to be seen. For the Power to finish fourth, they need to take care of business, hope St Kilda upsets Richmond and for Sydney not to get a massive percentage boost against Carlton. The Suns were competitive against Essendon last weekend before succumbing to their seventh straight loss. The biggest challenge for interim coach Dean Soloman is getting his players up for a game with nothing to play for, apart from denting the Power's ladder position. The possibility of a top-four finish should inspire the Power.
WHERE AND WHEN: Adelaide Oval, Sunday, August 26, 7.10pm ACST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R8, 2017, Port Adelaide 16.14 (110) d Gold Coast 4.14 (38) at Jiangwan Sports Centre
R23, 2016, Port Adelaide 13.11 (89) d Gold Coast 9.12 (66) at Metricon Stadium
R22, 2015, Port Adelaide 12.16 (88) d Gold Coast 7.9 (51) at Metricon Stadium
R21, 2014, Port Adelaide 7.14 (56) d Gold Coast 7.5 (47) at Metricon Stadium
R21, 2013, Port Adelaide 16.17 (113) d Gold Coast 14.12 (96) at AAMI Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. A dominant first half delivered the Power an easy win over the Suns when they met in China in round eight. The Power booted 10 goals to three leading into the main change before piling on the misery after the break.
2. The Power are the second-highest scoring team in the competition, averaging 96 points per game. In contrast, the Suns are ranked 16th in scoring with 82 points per game.
3. History favours the Power, who have wn seven of their eight games against the Suns. Gold Coast's only victory was also its first AFL win in round five, 2011.
4. Tackling isn't a strong suit for the SUns, who are ranked last or tackle in the League with 61.8 per game. The Power is ranked 11th, averaging 69 per game.
5. The Suns are chasing their first win at Adelaide Oval, losing their two previous games at the venue against Adelaide. The Power have won seven of their 11 games at Adelaide Oval this season.
6. Power ruckman Paddy Ryder is flying back up the Schick AFL Player Ratings. Ryder moved up 31 spots to 191st overall after the Power's round 21 win over the Western Bulldogs in Ballarat.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR...Steven May
The Suns co-captain has returned to his best since being given the task of marking the opposition's premier key forwrd. Former Suns teammate Charlie Dixon is in ripping form hiself, so this will be a pivotal match-up.
PREDICTION: Port Adelaide by 56 points.
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