A definant Port Adelaide has endured its ninth loss to Geelong despite a seven-goal performance from Angus Monfries
A DEFIANT Port Adelaide has fallen to Geelong by 25 points at Simonds Stadium following a Angus Monfries-inspired surge in the second half.
Monfries kicked seven goals in his best individual performance since coming to Alberton last summer.
It followed on from his strong effort against Adelaide in last Sunday's Balfours Showdown.
But Simonds Stadium remained a fortress for its tenant as the Cats opened up an early lead and never looked back.
Port is one of only two teams (the other being Sydney) to defeat Geelong at Simonds Stadium in the past 43 matches at the ground - that win coming back in 2007.
Geelong opened the game with five goals to Port's one and extended that to a comfortable 51-point lead at the half-time break.
The Cats' ball usage and disposal efficiency was critical to its first-half dominance, while its excellent set-shot accuracy ensured the Power was held at arm's length throughout the day.
Port was in for the fight and was effective enough at stoppages to create opportunities inside 50.
But Geelong's pressure around the ball proved the difference at effecting turnovers and punishing Port on the scoreboard.
Things looked dire for the visitors when the Cats extended its lead to 58 points at three-quarter-time.
But as it has done throughout the season, a fast-finishing Port Adelaide ran out the match to fall by just four goals at the close of play.
“Not today”: the mentality behind Port’s spirited Semi comeback
Lauren Arnell was left full of pride after her side completed the biggest comeback from three-quarter time in AFLW history to book their place in a preliminary final.
Match report: Power storm home to edge Hawks in semi-final classic
Port Adelaide has come from the clouds in the final term to earn a preliminary final berth against North Melbourne.
Marlie and me: The 'incredibly special' moment that changed Port coach
Lauren Arnell was back at work just months after giving birth to daughter Marlie. She tells Sarah Black how that's affected her, and her coaching.
Arnell: Squad in ‘good shape’ ahead of Saturday’s semi
Senior coach Lauren Arnell spoke to Adelaide media today ahead of her side's Semi Final against Hawthorn.