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FIXING Port Adelaide’s starts remains a priority for Chad Cornes, but he remains upbeat given his side’s ability to quickly correct them.
Port Adelaide took on Adelaide in the SANFL ‘Showdown’ at Woodville Oval on Saturday an won by a convincing 34 points after kicking just three behinds in the first quarter to the Crows four goals.
Cornes says the Magpies can’t keep relying on big second terms, and must look to keep pace with opposition from the get-go.
“The starts have been an issue all year, we spoke about a lot during the week and we didn’t feel the need to change anything because the boys were comfortable in what we were doing,” Cornes said.
“But it will need to be looked at again because it was a pretty lifeless quarter.
“It’s great that we can keep coming back from these 3-4 goal deficits at quarter time, but we don’t want to be in that position to start with so we will address it.”
Angus Monfries played his first game since the end of 2015 against the Crows and looked to have shaken the injury troubles that dogged his e pre-season.
He proved his capabilities on the wing and covered plenty of ground, finishing the game with 31 disposals.
“He’s had a really good training block of a month or so to get prepared for this, he had no restriction in terms of game time and he looked great,” Cornes said.
“[Angus] is a really good leader and brings lots of energy.”
The second half of football put the game pretty firmly in Magpie control and they managed to hold the ball in their attacking half for the majority of the second half.
However, Cornes still sees areas for improvement and will concentrate on these leading into next weekend’s game against Sturt.
“I thought we got beaten a bit out of the centre square their rucks and midfields were on top of us, other than that I thought we were on top in most positions,” Cornes said.
“Our ball movement when we do it well works really good we just have to be a bit more composed with the footy at time and not go for the impossible kick.
“We still haven’t played the complete good game, it’s been one good quarter or two good quarters, but next week is a good opportunity to do it for Summerton’s 200th game.”
Next week marks the 200th game for Magpies captain Steve Summerton.
Cornes is confident the team can win for their captain, but insists they won’t be taking the game lightly.
“They [Sturt] haven’t won a game yet, but they have great players and are very well coached so I’m sure they aren’t far away we definitely won’t be taking them lightly.”
