THERE was some improvement, but things might take a little while to turn around. Here's what we learned after our Round 8 loss to the Tigers...
1. The scoreboard matters most…
Angus Monfries booted two goals, but was just one of three goal scorers on Sunday [pic: AFL Photos]
As good as some of the Power's ball movement was on Sunday night, its finishing and foot execution was, as Ken Hinkley described, 'horrendous'. Eight players kicked behinds, just three scored goals, and that work in attack was particularly disappointing during the third quarter when Port was well on top of the Tigers.
As much as commentators and pundits will talk about winning the ball, its still a game determined by the scoreboard.
PTV: Hinkley post-match
HINKLEY: Self-belief needs to return
2. There is improvement...
Chad Wingard has been solid for a few weeks and was involved in four of Port's five goals against Richmond [pic: AFL Photos]
...At least on last week. After a pretty poor performance agianst Brisbane, the Power did mend, at least a little, some of its problem areas. The inside-50 count and quality of entry improved - and was probably among its best for what has been a challenging three-week period - and its quality of possession around the ground was better. If not for easy misses in front of goals and a little better execution inside 50, it would have been a better outcome for the Power.
Match report: Tigers punish Power inaccuracy
Talking points: Power v Tigers
3. Cornes is a class act
The Cornes boys run onto the field one last time. [pic: AFL Photos]
The Power didn't win the game, but Kane Cornes at least took one small victory away, keeping Trent Cotchin quiet most of the night. Port Adelaide's supreme tagging machine mustered it all for one last tilt at AFL football in the black, white and teal, and then ran around the Oval with one last salute to the club's faithful before being chaired from the ground.
He'll be missed.
PTV: Power and Tigers farewell Kane
CORNES: A legacy to be proud of
4. Time to turn over a new leaf...
Jackson Trengove's injury will present an opportunity for a defender to step up . [pic: AFL Photos]
Four Sunday twilight games haven't returned particularly great results, save for a scraping Showdown win against the Crows. Consistency has been a theme for some time, and as Matthew Nicks said before Round 8's game, form isn't just a button to push. A lengthy injury to Jackson Trengove and Cornes's retirement will open spots up in this week's side for some to press their claim at training for a selection. Ultimately, Port Adelaide's challenge is to absorb its poor run of form and work itself back into the shape of a four-quarter competitive side.
Against Melbourne this week, there is no better place to start...
