Roar Guru
Round three continues with an intriguing contest at AAMI Stadium as Port Adelaide host the Sydney Swans. Join us from 2.10pm AEST for live scores and commentary, and have your say throughout the match.
Eight months ago, you looked at Port Adelaide and thought, “What will happen to this rabble?”
Over the summer, there has been some culling, some strengthening, and some hard toil. As a result, Port Power looks as if it’s back on its feet.
In round one they held a big lead against St Kilda and then hung on when challenged late. In round two, on the road, they pushed Essendon all afternoon, and almost came away with a gutsy win.
Today is a very good test. We’ll see how important Robbie Gray is to the line-up, as he returns this week after a hamstring injury. We’ll see how well their midfield can perform. We’ll see whether or not the passion has returned.
Last week I mentioned the Swans are a good chance to find themselves 4-0 by the end of next week.
But this week is a little tricky, with this being their first game on the road. They’ve played both games so far in Sydney (one at ANZ Stadium, the other at the SCG).
Now, I know their win last week against Fremantle was impressive without Shane Mumford in the side. And I know the Swans have won four of their last five against Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.
But for some reason, I have a little apprehension picking them as a certainty.
I sense there might be a slight letdown this week in terms of their performance. And playing on the road, if you slip up, it’s magnified.
As extra motivation, it’s important day for the Sydney Swans, with Adam Goodes going level on most games played at the club with Michael O’Loughlin.
Today is game number 303 for the Brownlow Medallist, a career that coincidentally started against Port Adelaide in round one 1999.
Win on the road by a decent margin and the Swans will prove themselves to be a true top-eight side, and quite possibly a team who could bash down the door of the top four.
I think we’re in for a bit of fun this afternoon. Join the conversation as we bring you all the important moments from Port Adelaide versus Sydney at AAMI Stadium, from 2.10pm AEST.