Roar Guru
Port Adelaide are slipping down the ladder after three straight defeats but start strong favourites at home against the Melbourne Demons. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 1:10pm (AEST).
Has the bubble finally burst for Port Adelaide? Six weeks ago they were the envy of every AFL team as they sat a game clear on top of the ladder.
Now, Port’s top four hopes have taken a battering in recent weeks and they need a win today to steady the ship.
Although they start strong favourites against Melbourne, Port would be wise not to underestimate a team they are expected to defeat handsomely this afternoon.
The last time the Demons played at the Adelaide Oval, they produced one of the upsets of the season, defeating the Crows in a cracking game of footy.
Melbourne will be keen to leave a better impression of themselves following a poor defeat to Geelong last week. When they are on song, the Demons are a very competitive outfit as evidenced by their win over Adelaide earlier in the year.
With confidence down, Port could be vulnerable to yet another upset if they fail to show up with the intensity required to register a win.
In all fairness though, if Port wish to consider themselves premiership contenders, then they need to switch on and win well this afternoon at home.
Port are one of the most entertaining sides to watch in the competition but they have fallen prey to the intense pressure from quality rivals such as Essendon and Adelaide.
Port really need to roll up their sleeves this afternoon and dictate terms with possessions and tackles. If they can get on top in those departments, they should do enough to secure a much needed victory.
Port by 48