PORT ADELAIDE SANFL coach Matthew Lokan has been left frustrated at the crucial 41-point loss to Sturt on Sunday afternoon.
The Magpies had been unbeaten at Alberton Oval in 2021 until the Double Blues’ victory and Lokan confessed his displeasure at the result.
“It was really disappointing,” he said after the game.
“We came into a really important game to win in the context of our season, and we weren't able to get it done.
“We got beat up around the ball.”
The Magpies had dominated in the ruck, but the clearance numbers still favoured the Double Blues.
“The contests were -7 in clearance when we won the hit-outs by almost 30.
“They were clean around the footy, they were tough around the footy and their ball movement was composed. They had 31 marks more than us.
“They were too good, and it was really disappointing, but we’ve got to move on pretty quick.”
In the loss, the Magpies were crippled by injuries, with three players hurt by the end of the game, including returning captain Cam Sutcliffe.
“Taj Schofield looks like a hamstring, Cam Sutcliffe's shoulder is a bit sore and Jake Weidemann has got some rib/chest issues,” Lokan said.
“The injury curse rolls along, but we'll get them assessed during the week and hopefully they come up.”
Port Adelaide’s next challenge is away at Prospect Oval against North Adelaide next Saturday at 1.30pm.