PORT ADELAIDE has rebounded from consecutive losses with a runaway 58-point win over the Adelaide Crows.
It strengthens Port’s spot in the top three on eight wins with percentage keeping the black-and-white in second place ahead of reigning premiers Sturt.
There was improvement from last weekend’s loss to Woodville-West Torrens. This time, the Magpies found more space to push the ball forward handballing through congestion.
But it wasn’t a easy victory, despite a big second half quelling Adelaide.
While the Magpies were first to score a major thanks to a run-from-the-pack goal from Tom Gray but despite having more of the ball inside forward 50 from midway through the first quarter, couldn’t break the Crows’ tough defence.
Adelaide gained momentum late in the quarter and scored two quick goals in a row to take the lead and held better control early in the second quarter, but the Magpies upped their pressure to convert three consecutive goals late in the second term.
Holding a 16-point lead at half time, Port extended with another goal atop the Crows in the third and tore open the game in the final quarter with four consecutive goals to win by 58 points.
Billy Frampton played well in ruck, but it was his skill up forward where he really impressed. He finished the game with three goals and 20 disposals.
Aaron Young topped the touches table with 33 disposals and was instrumental in pushing the ball into the Magpies forward line.
Captain Steven Summerton was back from the Reserves and played a big role on the wing.
Port Adelaide will concentrate next plays Central District at My Money House Oval on Saturday 11 July at 2.10pm.
Scoreboard
PORT ADELAIDE 2.6 6.8 10.9 17.10 (112)
ADELAIDE SANFL 3.2 4.4 7.5 8.6 (54)
Goals
Eddy, Frampton, Johnson 3, Ladhams 2, T. Gray, A Young, Monfries, Hewett, Palmer, Summerton.
Best
Frampton, A. Young, Summerton, T. Gray, Palmer, Johnson
Injuries
Toumpas (concussion)
At Alberton Oval
