Port Adelaide
Given the likely availability of Jay Schulz and Hamish Hartlett, it’s hard to see too many changes to the Power’s unbeaten side. But with a number of experienced players performing in the SANFL, the selection committee will have plenty to think about.
Robbie Gray continues to do everything right in his recovery from an ACL injury. Gray played in the SANFL for the fourth consecutive week and impressed in the Bloods big win over the Eagles. The elusive small forward booted two goals and had 16 possessions.
Alan Richardson said Gray was “busting down the door” to return to AFL ranks and looks to have his body in good shape. Given his recent history of starring in Showdowns, the selection committee may be tempted to pick him.
Former skipper Dom Cassisi continued his good form for the Bloods, racking up 24 touches and 6 tackles and his experience could be a big bonus down back in the heat of a Balfours Showdown.
The issue is not whether Cassisi is ready to return, it’s who makes way for him. Campbell Heath, Jasper Pittard and Lewis Stevenson have been excellent down back throughout the pre-season and first two rounds, and Cam O’Shea’s good form and versatility means it’ll be hard to squeeze him out of the side.
Sam Colquhoun is another whose form may warrant a call-up, but is in the same boat as Cassisi. The hard-running defender was one of Central District’s best in Round 1 and was an emergency for the Power in Round 2. Given Cassisi’s experience, Colquhoun may have to wait a bit longer for his first taste of the AFL.
Aaron Young was very close to selection in Round 1 – having been named as an emergency – and dominated for North Adelaide’s reserves side on the weekend, amassing a whopping 41 possessions and booting 3 goals. Young’s ability to play up forward and in the midfield may give him a look in against the Crows.
Matt Thomas (20 disposals and 8 clearances) and Brent Renouf (40 hitouts) impressed for Norwood in their big win over Glenelg. Given the Power struggled to win clearances against the Giants, the selection committee will consider a change to the midfield set-up, with Thomas and Renouf’s mature bodies a potential advantage against Adelaide’s strong midfield group.
Key forwards John Butcher (5.2) and Daniel Stewart (4.1) both booted bags for the Magpies and Roosters respectively. If Schulz doesn’t get up for the game, expect Butcher and Stewart to fight it out for a position at full forward.
Squad of 25 possible changes
In: Gray, Cassisi, Young
Out: Nil
The Power’s squad of 25 will be named on Thursday at 6pm. Download the Official Port Adelaide App here to get the team straight to your mobile.
Adelaide
Brodie Smith has recovered from a broken collarbone and is a chance to line up on Sunday. However, it’s expected the running defender will make his return through the SANFL.
Graham Joncock looks certain to return following a seven-goal haul in the SANFL for the Magpies.
Sam Kerridge, Brodie Martin, Richard Tambling and Tim McIntyre were all good for Sturt and will be considered at the selection table.
However, like the Power, it’s hard to change a winning side.
