IT’S the greatest, most fierce rivalry in South Australian football, spanning more than 400 games between the state’s two most successful clubs.
And another chapter will be written this Friday when Port Adelaide hosts reigning premiers Norwood under lights in an epic grand final rematch.
PREVIEW: Port Adelaide v Norwood
The clubs will come together in solidarity and respect to commemorate the centenary of the Gallipoli landings in World War I in a heritage-themed blockbuster.
It’ll be the first time the arch rivals have met since the Magpies went down to the Redlegs in the 2014 Grand Final by just four points; a heartbreaking loss for Port Adelaide which came back from five goals down in the first quarter.
With Friday’s rematch being held at the scene of the crime – the Adelaide Oval - it’ll be a fierce battle between South Australia’s best.
Despite Norwood’s 81-point downfall to the Eagles last weekend, Port Adelaide’s SANFL coach Garry Hocking is adamant the loss hasn’t affected the team’s preparation heading into the clash.
He’s expecting an incredibly tough game, both mentally and physically, with last year’s disappointing result weighing heavily on the Maggies’ minds.
“It’s burnt in the stomach, probably, the 2014 Grand Final…you know, Norwood getting up by four points, so we’ve had six months to really reflect on that and look at ways to get better,” Hocking said.
“An opportunity comes on Friday night to have another crack at our arch rival and try and sort a few things out and try and get a win.
“We know it’s going to be a really tough contest – we need to be in the game early. It was five goals to one in 2014, in the first quarter, so we really need to atone for that…we need to be up and about.”
The significance of the ANZAC Centenary will be at the forefront of everyone’s minds; a significant event not to be overshadowed by football, according to the coach.
“It’s a great honour to be back at Adelaide Oval, ANZAC weekend footy really comes second, considering what the servicemen and women have done for us,” Hocking said. The Magpies and Redlegs will run through a shared, ANZAC-themed banner, while both teams will don commemorative heritage guernseys, paying homage to those who have served in conflict since 1915. An official ANZAC Day ceremony will also be held on the night.
With the highly-anticipated clash set to attract thousands on Friday, the club recommends the Port Adelaide faithful to arrive early at the ground to avoid cues for tickets. This is one game not to be missed!
GAME INFORMATION
Port Adelaide v Norwood
Friday 24 April, 7.10pm
Adelaide Oval
Tickets
$14: Adult
$8: Concession
FREE: Children under 18, Magpies season/home game ticket holders, We Are Port Adelaide upgrade and Essential category members
