PORT Adelaide SANFL coach Garry Hocking says Norwood dealt a "reality check" to an inexperienced Port Adelaide on Friday night, following its 63-point loss in the first trial game at Norwood Oval.

The Port team that ran out consisted of a patchwork of players from the club's AFL, League and Academy lists, and couldn't match the poise and strength of a more experienced Redlegs outfit.

Speaking to portadelaidefc.com.au after the game, Hocking was disappointed with his side's performance, conceding it was the wake-up many younger players needed to realise the top standards of the competition.

Norwood too good in first trial game

"It was an unacceptable performance, but it was a good opportunity [to play] against Norwood who are always going to be ready," Hocking said.

"We understand the level we need to get to and it's always good playing Norwood early in the season to get a bit of a reality check as to where we are at.

"They are a pretty experienced group, with winning three flags comes experience, confidence and good structure, so we are on track but we've got to get better to beat the best.

"We've got some work to with contested ball and around the stoppages."

Hocking said the match was a chance for up and coming Academy-listed players including Tom Corcoran, Sidney Masters and Jack Haarsma to show their talent against some of the best players in the league.

"Most of those guys hadn't played senior footy at all so it was a good to give them an opportunity," Hocking said.

"Some were impressive.

"We are on track and although you don't want to lose, it says that we've got a bit more work to do and we are preparing for round one."

Port Adelaide plays the Adelaide Crows in a League trial game at Alberton on Saturday 21 March before a final hit-out against reigning SAAFL premiers Goodwood Saints at Thebarton on Thursday 2 April.