RUCKMEN Sam Hayes and Peter Ladhams headline a list of potential inclusions for Port Adelaide’s Saturday night blockbuster against the Western Bulldogs.
With Scott Lycett being handed a four-week suspension for a dangerous tackle during the Showdown win over Adelaide, the selectors will be weighing up whether to recall Ladhams to the AFL line-up or hand Hayes an AFL debut.
Hayes’s SANFL form in 2021 has been strong. The 21-year-old is averaging 33 hit-outs and 3.5 clearances per game along with 13.5 disposals.
Ladhams was among Port’s best in the wins over reigning premiers Woodville-West Torrens and Adelaide in the last fortnight.
Against the Crows he booted three goals while splitting his time between the forward line and ruck.
Defender Riley Bonner could also come into the selection discussions after another strong SANFL showing in his second game since returning from a hamstring injury.
The 24-year-old had 26 disposals, eight marks, three clearances and two goals in an impressive performance.
Consistent defender Jarrod Lienert is also in the mix following his game-high 28 touches in the win against the Crows, while forward Boyd Woodcock was taken out of the SANFL game early to be held aside as an emergency for the Power’s AFL Showdown and could also be considered for selection.
Port Adelaide will on Friday evening name its side to tackle the Bulldogs, with the game getting underway at Adelaide Oval at 7:10pm ACST on Saturday.
