PORT ADELAIDE’s loss to West Coast will no doubt have the coaches considering whether to make changes at the selection table for Friday night’s encounter with the reigning premiers Richmond.
Ruckman Sam Hayes was immense in the club’s SANFL season opener on Thursday night, finishing with an incredible 41 hit-outs compared with the 23 that Norwood’s three ruck options had all together.
Hayes also had 14 disposals, seven marks and three clearances in a best afield showing in a losing side, doing his chances of making his AFL debut no harm.
Another who is edging closer to an AFL debut is defender Lachie Jones who returned from a minor hamstring injury against the Redlegs and racked up 14 disposals and four tackles despite coming off early.
He and Kane Farrell travelled to Perth with the AFL side as emergencies, and Farrell could also be in the mix for an immediate return after being omitted from the team that went down to the Eagles.
Defenders Jarrod Lienert and Trent McKenzie could also come into consideration if Ken Hinkley and his assistants decide to make a change in the backline. Lienert had 26 disposals, seven tackles and 13 rebound 50s in the SANFL while McKenzie had 15 touches to go with his five marks and six rebound 50s.
Utility Sam Mayes was also impressive with his team-high 28 disposals, three tackles and six inside 50s. He also had a game-high seven clearances to put his name firmly in the selection mix.
Port Adelaide will on Thursday evening name its side to tackle the Tigers, with the game getting underway at Adelaide Oval at 7:20pm on Friday.
