THE Port Adelaide Academy was outplayed by a more experienced and skilful South Adelaide outfit at Noarlunga Oval on Saturday to the tune of 40 points.
The third term proved the difference between the two sides as the Panthers stormed to a five-goal performance, while the Magpies could only manage one behind.
Skill errors again put paid to the Academy's chances and the pressure around the ball from South meant scores from turnovers were plentiful.
It was another learning experience for Jacob Surjan's band of predominantly 18 year old hopefuls, but their lack of experience was evident against an older blue and white opponent.
The Magpies' resolve was apparent early however, and following two-week sabbatical thanks to the split round and the League's match against the Crows last week, the visitors were hard at the ball from the first bounce, with plenty of desperation to win the ground-ball contests.
The key statistics were even across the board in the first term with both sides each on 10 inside-50s and the Magpies leading the clearances by three.
But it was the Panthers who were able to make the most of its opportunities when in possession throughout the day, and the home side never looked back from its 25-point lead at quarter time.
Zac Hawkins was a shinning light for the side and was called upon for League duties following the withdrawals of a handful of players.
He worked hard to try and provide run across half back and by half time had 12 disposals and four marks.
He was supported by Justin Mills who worked tirelessly in the centre and racked up 11 disposals by the main break.
Port Adelaide was able to hold South Adelaide to just two goals in the second term as the wind picked up and both sides struggled to freely move the ball out from stoppages
The Panthers, who went into the match sitting sixth and needed a win to keep their finals hopes alive, continued to dominate in the second half though, and extended a 10-goal lead to douse Port's chances of snatching its fourth win of the season.
Port Adelaide was able to peg the margin back in the final term, outscoring the home side four goals-to-one.
Justin Mills (18 disposals), Zac Hawkins (24 disposals), Tom Gray (19) and Jackson Williams - son of former coach Stephen (16 disposals) all impressed despite the loss.
More to come...
SCOREBOARD
PORT ADELAIDE 1.1 2.4 2.5 6.9 (45)
SOUTH ADELAIDE 5.2 7.2 12.5 13.7 (85)
PORTADELAIDEFC.COM.AU'S BEST
Hawkins, Corcoran, Mills, Northeast, Masters
GOALS
Haarsma 2, Mills, Hamilton, Dixon, Mills.
INJURIES
TBC
REPORTS
Nil
