BELLIGERENTS
PORT ADELAIDEYear to date: LWWW
Last five at ground: -
Currently ranked: 2nd
CROWS STATE TEAM
Year to date: LLWL
Last five at ground: -
Currently ranked: 7th
HEAD TO HEAD AND LAST FIVE
Never played
PLAYBILL
SANFL IGA League - Round 5Adelaide Crows State League side v Port Adelaide
Sunday 4 May
First bounce 2:10pm
Academy: 11:25pm
Hashtags: #pafclive #crowsport
Tickets at the gate: $14 general, $8 concession, U18 free
STATE LEAGUE SHOWDOWN
While Port Adelaide has played the Crows in the AFL since 1997, this weekend will be the first time that it's encountered them in the SANFL.
This first state league encounter will be a big test for both sides, with Port Adelaide looking to keep the pressure on top-ranked South Adelaide while the Crows are a chance to jump up the ladder with a win.
The pressure will be high - both teams will want to gain early bragging rights in the state-level competition's first 'Showdown'.
The Magpies have plenty of experience up their sleeves (some would argue 137 years' worth) and will benefit from having a relatively stable lineup this weekend with Henry Slattery likely to come back from a one-week sabbatical.
Their run and spread will be essential in this test against another side laced with exciting talent from around the country.
Port Adelaide's strength comes from its even spread of contributors, from seasoned players like captain Steven Summerton to its powerful engine room consisting of players like Kane Mitchell and Andrew Moore down to promising up-and-comers like Angus Bruggemann and Ben Haren.
But the Magpies' ability to have new players contribute instantaneously is also an important tool in its armoury.
This is no better exemplified by the League debut of Zac Hawkins last week - a performance which saw him accrue 24 touches and four inside-50s.
There are areas of improvement, which are essential for the Magpies this weekend.
While it's important to have an even spread of contributors, it's also essential for the whole team to produce a consistent effort. That is something that has lacked in the last two games against the Eagles and Bloods, which both dominated proceedings in the middle of the game to challenge the early Magpie surge.
Garry Hocking's men won't want to let their guard down against the Crows state league team, which has been able to inflict its own damage on opposition sides this year - no less than long time league benchmark Central District a fortnight ago.
With plenty riding on this one, expect fireworks.
