PORT Adelaide SANFL senior coach Garry Hocking believes Sunday's 37-point win over West Adelaide proves his side can handle the heat of finals.
Sunday's win against the Bloods at home arguably gives the Magpies a psychological advantage heading into the rematch between the two sides in next weekend's qualifying final at the Adelaide Oval.
REVIEW: Magpies finish on high note
Port Adelaide's win did not come easily, despite a good start, after struggling to maintain its early momentum and its defensive structure crumbled at times in the second quarter, resulting in a narrow four-point lead at the main break.
But an aggressive third quarter flurry of five goals to West's one had Hocking content.
He said after the game it was the perfect dress rehearsal for the finals qualifier.
"I think it's a good way to finish the minor round," Hocking said.
"Our last six to eight weeks have been solid, even with a young group, we have been really competitive, and consistent, and we've won more games in the back end [of the season] by being more aggressive and more physical.
"Hopefully that will set us up for the finals.
"We had a better start and we had been down in that recently, so we addressed that and it's a lead up to next week when it's going to be hot and our boys will be under pressure."
Hocking moved Steve Summerton from his usual stomping ground in the midfield to the forward lines and said the skipper relished the role, finishing with five goals.
"Summerton worked well up-forward for us and we went more smaller, more creative, and we were able to manufacture some goals from ground level.
"[Kane] Mitchell was fantastic as well."
Port Adelaide and West Adelaide will battle it out again next Sunday at Adelaide Oval for a chance to play minor premiers Woodville-West Torrens in a second semi final.
"We have spoken about last year's grand final loss and that's in the past," Hocking said.
"We can decide our future going forward and I think it gave us a bit of experience and our group will be better for having last year under their belt, so that's the exciting thing."
The SANFL Qualifying Final between Port and West will take place at the Adelaide Oval at 3:10pm on Sunday 6 September.
