WHILE Port Adelaide coach Mark Williams kept his players behind closed doors for 20 minutes following Sunday's 18-point win over Hawthorn, Power midfielder Travis Boak said 'Choco's' message was all about positive reinforcement rather than a post-game bake.

Port Adelaide's win, combined with Essendon's loss to the lowly West Coast Eagles in Perth later on Sunday, vaulted the Power back into the eight, and Boak says Port Adelaide's coaching staff was quick to praise the efforts of their players after the crucial victory over the reigning premier.

“The coaches were very happy with the game and the effort we put in," Boak said.

"After the game, we just spoke about each player, individually, and what they did for the team today. We know that if we all bring that to the team again next week, we’ll be right in the game.”

Port Adelaide evened their 2009 record at 9-9 with the win, ensuring they'll enter next week's clash with 15th-placed Fremantle at Subiaco Oval with confidence. For Boak, Sunday's victory was a belated present after he celebrated his 21st birthday sipping Powerade with friends and family on Saturday night.

Boak didn't enjoy a convincing start against Hawthorn, getting pinged for holding the ball on the last line of defence in the opening minutes, but he produced his birthday best from then on.

The skilful onballer finished with a game-high 35 possessions, eight marks, three clearances and a goal in what Williams described as his “best game” for the club.

Boak, who was in great touch before injuring his knee in round 11, said it was pleasing to recapture some form against the Hawks.

“It’s been a bit of a frustrating season. I missed five or so games with the knee injury and wanted to come back and make an impact straight away, but it was pretty tough having missed a fair whack of footy,” Boak said post-game.

“It was my third game back today, and I thought I was able to make a bigger impact.”

Boak was able to share the excitement of Sunday’s win with teammate Matthew Broadbent and fitness coach Cam Falloon, who also celebrated birthdays on Saturday.

His mother, Chicki, sisters and friends from back home in Torquay were also on hand to offer their best wishes.

“It was great to have my friends and family around me, and the win today was a great birthday present," he said.