FOLLOWING a 19-point loss to Melbourne, what is there to take away? Plenty...
1. One half of footy can't win a whole game
There were signs in the first and second quarters the Port Adelaide was capable of bringing its top shelf footy, but after the long change those glimpses were but a mirage.
Allowing a mid-strength Melbourne six unanswered goals after half time while being held goal less is football any team can ill-afford.
Ken Hinkley said the effort shown after half time was unacceptable.
2. Port's game needs some buffing
What when wrong after half time? Fewer numbers fighting for the ball, poor disposal, ill-discipline and a number of clumsy tackles - the Power simply shot itself in the foot when it looked like going forward, especially with the umpires.
Melbourne had more hunger and Port Adelaide lacked polish - expect to finish second if you're always second best.
3. We're still no clearer on rotation impact
In contrast to Melbourne, Port Adelaide played a smaller bench and ran its rotations close to the official limit for season 2016.
Ken Hinkley wasn't using that as an excuse for the Power's loss, but after last week's game against Sydney with it's young side, we're still probably no clearer to a fair assessment of how Port Adelaide's rotations game stacks up against the opposition.
It's normal rules against Richmond on March 10 - that will be the litmus test.
4. There's only one more chance to bring the effort
Port Adelaide has one more NAB Challenge game to go. When it plays Richmond at Etihad Stadium in 10 days, it will be under real rules (although supergoals will remain).
It will be a good test of its 2016 'A Team' on a hard deck, and of whether the Power can respond to the below-par effort against the Demons.
A win is crucial, even if it is the NAB Challenge, because it will be the final shakedown for two clubs looking to enter 2016 with momentum.
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